The Empty Earth

At some time in the future, Earth will be empty of human beings either because the human race has become extinct or because it has moved elsewhere. Poul Anderson considers both possibilities in different works. "The Chapter Ends" describes the last sight of Earth before the evacuees leave:

low grey sky

occasional fine rain

scudding clouds

wind loud in the trees

Wind usually means something but I am not sure what here. Not dramatic but worth recording if those who have left will never see Earth again.

The last man left sees:

a flame and gold sunset

the distant sea

the chapel

family graves

darkness

stars too bright

- and hears:

wind talking in the trees

a bird like a crying child

too much silence

The story ends with Kormt having a bad trip but maybe he will regain his equanimity in the decade or two that are left to him? A quiet and restful story apart from its closing note.