Give some meat to the dogs, Maybe they will fight for it. Give some kvass to drunks, Maybe they will go crazy. In order to scare the crows, Put some more scarecrows. And to be always in love, Give some private corner. Throw some seeds in the ground, Maybe the crops will appear. All right, I shall be humble, Only give me the freedom. The dogs were given meat, But they didn’t fight over it. The drunks were given vodka, But they refused to drink it. People are scaring the crows, But the crows are not afraid. Couples are getting together, But they should separate. Water was poured on the ground - No, crops, it’s a wonder. Yesterday I was given the freedom. What will I do with it?
© Nathan Mer. Translation, 1991