Nocturne
Nocturne - meaning Summary
Night Levels Social Boundaries
Auden’s Nocturne describes night as a gentle, levelling force that blurs geography and social distinctions. As continents and people slip into sleep, roles reverse: the proud are exposed, gamblers lose and beggars play host. The poem frames sleep as restorative and protective, a temporary reprieve from violence, work, and sexual danger. Its tone is benedictory, offering a wish that a specific friend may rest safely until morning.
Read Complete AnalysesNow through night's caressing grip Earth and all her oceans slip, Capes of China slide away From her fingers into day And th'Americas incline Coasts towards her shadow line. Now the ragged vagrants creep Into crooked holes to sleep: Just and unjust, worst and best, Change their places as they rest: Awkward lovers like in fields Where disdainful beauty yields: While the splendid and the proud Naked stand before the crowd And the losing gambler gains And the beggar entertains: May sleep's healing power extend Through these hours to our friend. Unpursued by hostile force, Traction engine, bull or horse Or revolting succubus; Calmly till the morning break Let him lie, then gently wake.
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