To Marina
Here the fir trees shiver in the snow, Here the birds twitter very turbulently. You live in a magic, wild forest, From which it is impossible to leave. Let the cherries dry out like laundry in the wind, Let the lilacs fall down like raindrops. But still, I will take you away from here To the castle where the reed - pipes are playing. Your world with wizards for thousand years Is concealed from me and the earth. And you think that one won’t find a better place Than this magic enchanted forest. The dew doesn’t have to sprinkle the leaves, Let the moon and the sky always quarrel. But still, I will take you away from here To the castle with a balcony overlooking the sea. In what day of the week, in what hour You will come out to me cautiously? When I will carry you in my arms To a place where no one can find you. I’ll kidnap you, if it’s all right with your soul. Was it in vain that I robbed myself out of strength? Please accept even heaven under my roof, If somebody had taken the castle.
© Nathan Mer. Translation, 1991