Ways, ways, - the steps are not counted, And one doesn’t know, where is the end of the road, - We walk along the way on different sides And we are not able to get across. Smile to me at least somehow with glances, Smile - I am opposite, I am next to you. If I run during the red light, I’ll be fined - no misfortune, - Only suggest to me - when. A smile, a smile - for whom is it? I however am waiting like nobody else, I am rooted to the spot and shut my eyes, open them - but you are alone, And again I missed the crossing. Smile to me at least somehow with glances, Smile - I am opposite, I am next to you. If I run during the red light, I’ll be fined - no misfortune, - Only suggest to me - when. I stride - who will forbid it! And the steps count out the road. I am ready to go to infinity with you - Only don’t turn to anywhere else. Smile to me at least somehow with glances, Smile - I am opposite, I am next to you. Our road is long, but I fear it will all end, - Pass it, if I don’t decide.
© Elisabeth Jelinek. Translation, 2018