That Night When Joy Began
That Night When Joy Began - context Summary
Published in 1940
Published in Auden’s 1940 collection Another Time, the short poem tracks a communal emotional shift: an initial, tense anticipation for a sudden crisis gives way to a gradual relaxation and acceptance. Morning’s promised alarm never comes, and relief grows into a credulous peace as people imagine their surroundings safe and private. The poem captures how fear can dissipate into complacency and how love’s vision adapts to that new normal.
Read Complete AnalysesThat night when joy began Our narrowest veins to flush, We waited for the flash Of morning's levelled gun. But morning let us pass, And day by day relief Outgrows his nervous laugh, Grown credulous of peace, As mile by mile is seen No trespasser's reproach, And love's best glasses reach No fields but are his own.
Feel free to be first to leave comment.