A hurry of hoofs in a village street,
A shape in the moonlight, a bulk in the dark,
And beneath, from the pebbles, in passing, a spark
Struck out by a steed flying fearless and fleet:
That was all! And yet, through the gloom and the light,
The fate of a nation was riding that night;
And the spark struck out by that steed, in his flight,
Kindled the land into flame with its heat.

This passage evokes the urgency and gravity of Paul Revere's midnight ride. By focusing on the "hurry of hoofs" and "a spark struck out by a steed," Longfellow captures the tension and importance of the moment. The imagery of "a shape in the moonlight" and "a bulk in the dark" emphasizes the mystery and stealth of Revere's mission. Yet, the poem reveals that this seemingly simple act held immense significance, as "the fate of a nation was riding that night." The spark is metaphorical, symbolizing how Revere's ride ignited the revolutionary spirit across the colonies, setting the stage for a larger conflict and the eventual birth of a nation. Through this vivid imagery, Longfellow highlights the pivotal role of individual actions in shaping history.