Looking up at the stars, I know quite well
That, for all they care, I can go to hell
But on earth indifference is the least
We have to dread from man to beast.How should we like it were stars to burn
With a passion for us we could not return?
If equal affection cannot be,
Let the more loving one be me.Admirer as I think I am
Of stars that do not give a damn
I cannot, now I see them, say
I missed one terribly all dayWere all stars to disappear or die,
I should learn to look at an empty sky
And feel its total dark sublime,
Though this might take me a little time.
- W.H. Auden
Beautiful of course… See also Brodsky’s tribute to Auden in his “Less than one” (selected essays).
That’s wonderful. By coincidence, the sermon at our church this morning was a reflection on nightime and the special appreciation for creation that comes from quiet contemplation of a starlit sky. I am often surprised at the anguish and argument that is spent over the believability of comparatively trivial miracles, like turning water into wine, healing a leper, or even virgin birth. The more important miracle, which if it is true would be truly magnificent, is that creation and creator should care about mere humans. Unlike Auden, I wouldn’t mind if we were loved by the stars.
gotta start reading me some auden. thanks muchly much.
Please come to FFXI Gil, we will give you a great surprise.
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