Promptly 4 and 5

Nightshift

Nightshift

I have seen the nightshift
those pale creatures
hurrying home before the sun
seeking the dark to earn their crust
and passing the daylight hours
in thickly curtained rooms
dozing from fitful dream to dream
propping up civilisation
with quiet unseen labour
leaving the day to louder men
who dream of other worlds.

I have been the nightshift
and hated it
missing the sunshine
and the prattling crowds
somehow surviving
the regulation two weeks
to return exhausted to the day
and meaningless toil.

Yes I know the nightshift
and give them due honour
for they hand on the baton
without complaint.


Line count: 23
Free verse
For Promptly Poetry Challenge, Week 26 2025
Prompt: Poet’s choice.