The opening call to stillness

The poem begins with a gentle instruction addressed to everyone. The poet asks us to count slowly to twelve and then to hold ourselves completely still. This counting sets a definite, small span of time, so the request feels doable rather than overwhelming. He describes the moment as unusual and refreshing — a rare interval in which the world would stand free of hurry, without the din of engines and machinery. The tone is calm and inviting, establishing a …