After Sunset from Rue Apollinaire by Alan Arthur

After Sunset

The night is still new

The Gardens at night are quiet, after the gates are shut
And the visitors have nearly all gone home,
The gatekeeper doesn't know there’s a couple still inside,
Covered by darkness on the slowly sloping lawn,

The night is still new, the night is still new.

They lie under the night, unbuttoned shirts and lips,
Wrapped in each other, fingers playing each other's skin,
Their champagne bottles are empty.
I want to make love, she says, let’s go home to my bed.

The night is still new, the night is still new

They find the gates are locked, and wander hand in hand,
Down to the harbour, back by the light splashed lake.
Up the hill towards the city, to the gate keeper's house.
“Where did you come from” he says,
“the Gardens are closed at dusk.”

The night is still new, the night is still new

He's angry as he opens the gate and sends them on lovers’ way,
They smile goodnight at him and walk Macquarie Street.
Waiting at the lights, they turn and embrace,
And show the city a close, long kiss.

The night is still new, the night is still new

• Alternative
• Bermagui