Moon, Sun, Stars

The circling moon compels the tide,
commands the dark and restless sea.
A silver torch, the burning guide
of dreams and luckless prophecy.
In August, summer's on the wane
but though the sun is in retreat
from solstice, it stirs hurricanes
and drives the waves of killing heat.
The ancient wheel of stars keeps turning
dropping comets now and then,
but sets no earthly engine burning
nor disturbs the fate of men--
their influence only detected
where stars in stillness are reflected.