Dark Shadows of the Night
The sun fiery orange,
going over the horizon,
dark shadows lengthening –
soon the curtain of darkness will fall.
In my garden shadows like black bat wings,
covering most everything,
the moon a pale yellow,
smiling down on me.
From the darkest corner,
comes my friend Melancholia,
her face so very white,
dark shadows beneath her eyes.
She looks pained,
while ghostly spirits,
flit and fly about her –
she makes me want to sigh.
I hear the lonely screech of an owl
and I hear the whispers of the spirits,
as they call to me –
so very lonely in the dark, dark night.
I step into the dark shadows,
that take a hold of me,
like long black, clasping fingers –
they pull me and Melancholia along.
So we walk in the silence,
while dark shadows follow us,
here the moon lights the way,
then it’s dark once more.
Like a spotlight,
shining I go along step by step,
I hear Melancholia sigh –
I know she is crying.
She loves the beauty of the night,
it is her birthright
and the ghostly twirling spirits –
call out to her from many yesterdays.
At the end of the garden,
there beneath the tall oak,
we sit and we watch –
dark shadows with the moon play.
There is a comfortable silence,
no words to say,
ghostly spirits with dark shadows dance –
while the moon highlights this tango.
A lovely, creepy dark night,
that will fade with the morning light,
for now I listen to the whispers
and the familiar old melodies.
A sad smile upon my lips,
lost in sweet memories,
Melancholia takes my hand,
it is cold and safe.
Clouds hide the moon,
as thunderheads warn of rain,
dark shadows hide away
and soon Melancholia will go away.
I watch her rise,
the ghostly spirits ready to follow,
the owl hoots a sad farewell,
until the next night –
when dark shadows will find us once more.
- Her Magical Attic - May 24, 2024
- Reflecting on the Setting Sun - April 9, 2024
- In My Special Dreams - February 16, 2024


Melancholia is often present when or appears when our minds are in sync with the darkest shadows of our minds. We must just let it flow, accept it, don’t fight it. Let it be, for it brings a peace within, helping us accept reality. It could be a lost one, a partner or friend who has crossed over to the other side. Melancholia often gives us a peace of mind that everything is going to be okay. I know you’ve lost your loved one and partner in life dear poet, but always sense his presence as he will be close by in the wind, storms, rain, sunshine and moonlit nights remembering what you both meant to one another. Let it flow, let it go, for Melancholia is a blanket that keeps us wrapped in love. Well penned my friend, peace and blessings I send to you this day.
Thank you so much Vincent. Blessings to you as well.
I’m so sorry for your loss Rasma – this piece is so sweetly sorrowful in how it highlights the night time as the most difficult time in times of sadness. I’m certain Martin is there, somewhere, resting a gentle hand on your shoulder, keeping you steady as you walk through the twilight, and whispering sweet memories as you slumber. I admire your strength in being able to manage day to day activities, let alone write such beautiful verses.
Thank you RJ one can only do one’s best and keep moving along.
Lovely verse, Rasma, “sweetly sorrowful” as Ralph says. It expresses a tenderness and acceptance of Melancholia as you walk with her. I believe Martin will help you, guide you through this time of loss and healing. The love you and he shared will be your strength. Take care, dear one, and know we are here for you in thought and spirit.
Thank you Phyllis.
What more can I say that hasn’t already been said Rasma, beautifully emoted and penned, filled with sorrow yet so sweetly rendered. great work.
Thank you Tony.