Ships that pass in the night

Posted by Eric N. on May 06, 2001

In Reply to: Ships that pass in the night posted by Roger Whitehead on May 06, 2001

: : Trying to find out what this phrase means. I have a vague idea but do not know the exact meaning.
: : Thanks
: : Eric

: It's from Longfellow's poem: The Theologian's Tale: Elizabeth, from the collection titled The Theologian's Tale.

: "Ships that pass in the night, and speak each other in passing;
: Only a signal shown and a distant voice in the darkness;
: So on the ocean of life we pass and speak one another,
: Only a look and a voice; then darkness again and a silence."

: Says all that's needed, I feel.

: Regards,

: Roger

Thank you for your quick response and detailed information.

Regards,

Eric