My heart aches, so does my head, I think Please believe me, I am not pretending. Help me out, and I’ll give you anything. And I’ll do my best as long as aid is pending. I will go where pine-trees grow and winds are blowing, It’s more interesting there - it’s just my ambition! I will give you cigarettes, and I’m going To present you with my singing in addition. Give me just a gulp of new fresh air Dare I grumble? Yes, I have a ground. Is it some perfume? The smell I just can’t bear... I shall thank you, when I get around. I’ve got iron nerves, that are the worse for wear, I have lost the peace of mind for ever. Oh my nerves, my poor nerves, you’re bare! If you came to life you’d be disabled. Bitter will be every word I’ll say, - I have pursed my lips to curse and swear. To the thick wild forest I would run away Hide myself - and howl in despair!
© Alec Vagapov. Translation, 1999