I too have been acquainted with the night.
I too have walked alone in darkening rain.
I too walked out, to give myself a fright.
I left behind the lovers sleeping warm.
Past embassies and staring camera spheres
Who feared I walked alone to cause them harm.
I clambered over boulders in the road,
In search of water to dissolve my tears,
At last to drown my overwhelming load.
The first car slunk in darkness on my right.
The others swerved to miss me on my left.
At last, I found a welcoming, watery sight.
I stared awhile into the murky depths,
Imagining the treasure down below,
Before I broke away, with sobbing breaths.
I walked, alone, amongst the speeding cars.
Until at last, I caught a flickering light:
I sensed my night evolving into farce.
The blinding, strobing beacons scorched my eyes.
My tears evaporated as I turned around.
"Are you okay," he asked. I lied, "Yes, fine."
The officers escorted me to land,
Ensured that I was safe, then quietly left.
A vagrant stared; stretched out one filthy hand.
I walked again, still sadder than before.
I'd failed to manage but a simple stroll.
I knew then that I'd fail to win the war.
I realised my life would be a fight
In which each day I'd struggle with myself
To walk alone, acquainted with the night.