Poetry for October 31st

Two pieces of poetry for the day, or night, that's in it — as they are known to say in Ireland. One, the first, I believe I've posted here before. The second, I may have. I can no longer remember.

I do know the second dates from 1993 when I was in Cupertino and newly come to the US.

in the twilight of the year
            when all is night;
venture forth all those
          who flee the light

to dance, to prance and merry-make
o'er all the world 'fore dawn should break
to win, to woo, to fright, to thrall
and mysteries hid reveal to all

to scale the furthest, safest tower
and steal within most virtuous bower
the wary, cautious, shy to tempt
and rusting, dusting sleep prevent

and tear away from righteous "Nay"
and whisper soft, "come on, let's play!"

ooo000ooo

The land was still and quiet

And a full moon

Looked down from an untroubled sky

Upon Silence.

Walking

A strange Presence -

Or perhaps Absence

Was sensed, was felt,

Was seen

Yet unseen when sought.

An ancient, ancient memory

stirred -

From the very bones of my Race

For this was the Eve of

Samhain

The Eve of All Hallows

And Strangeness walked the Land.