Vocabulary in Acquainted with the Night

The word “luminary” may be used here as an adjective that means related to or characterized by light, suggesting that the speaker describes an illuminated clock in a clock tower that rises high above the city. However, “luminary” when used as a noun is defined as a celestial body, such as the sun or the moon, that gives light. In this regard, “One luminary clock against the sky” may be interpreted as a metaphor for the moon in the dark sky; the moon’s changing position in the night sky indicates the passage of time, as does a clock.

“Acquainted” means familiar with, suggesting that the speaker has had numerous experiences with the night. Describing himself as “one” who is acquainted with the night indicates that other people are familiar with it, as well. In addition to its literal meaning, “night” has connotations of darkness, loneliness, and despair.