And so let’s take a last look-around, and say Farewell to all
Events that gave the last decade, which this New Year
Brings to its close, a special pathos. Let us fill
One final fiery glass and quickly drink to the ‘Pre-War’
Before we greet ‘the Forties’, whose unseen sphinx-face
Is staring fixedly upon us from behind its veil;
Drink farewell quickly, ere the Future smash the glass.

David Gascoyne, «Farewell Chorus»
Ano Novo de 1940