The Alarm

The hundreds of windows filling with faces
Because of something no one is able to explain,
Because there was no fire engine, no scream, no gunshot,
And yet here they are all assembled,
Some with hands over their children's eyes,
Others leaning out and shouting
To people walking the streets far below
With the same composure and serene appearance
Of those going for a Sunday stroll
In some other century, less violent than ours.

-----Charles Simic