Twilight’s Embrace

When dusk falls softly, Carpeting the world in purple, I watch as the horizon, Drips colors from a painter’s brush. The day exhales its final breath, Kissing the earth goodnight, While stars begin to sway, In the womb of the coming night.

In that moment divine, I sense the world breathe slow, Every creature quieting, Underneath the silver glow. Twilight’s tender embrace, A lullaby of dreams, Where even shadows find solace, In the beauty of moonbeams.

— Wole Soyinka

• Wole Soyinka