University High School - Bisbila Yearbook (Minneapolis, MN)

Page 3 text:

Look back! Do not look back! Wc can do neither When sight and steps are forward set, the mind Turns always to the way that it has come. So we go forward, not forgetting still Our coming in our going — what else can we do? But other voices call us from the dark; This blowing dark that beats about our ears And penetrates our sheltered brains with pangs That lash us into madnesses of doubt. “Come forward in this midnight but to seek A nook of comfort on the twisting path; A haven carved in the enveloping rock Where you may stop, and stay secure forever. Sleep here, lulled by the pulsing of your blood On Us old, lazy course. Come, close your eyes That ache with squinting, unrewarded search. And rest for there are people here around. Vague shadow-forms to sing you lullabies. Shadow-forms to gently smooth your brow With cold, transparent hands that you make warm. Can we deny the howling of the night? Can we retreat into a cozy place And sleep, forgetting all but our own selves? If with these ghost-companions we consort And give them life for sleep and easy peace Must not we too fade into wraights, and die? “Come forward, it is dark, and darkness grows Around you, shuts you in, and blinds your eyes. It must be so, for you are scurrying mice Whose small feet rattle in a dusty attic. The walls are dry and dirty, sour air Chokes you, catching in your furry throats. Hear how your paws scratch on the empty floor; Hear how you squeak and whimper, as you search In desperation for a flashing trap Whose swift metallic snap will end your life.” Is this the end to all our going forth?