Alexander Blok
I would forget about courage, winning...

I would forget about courage, winning,
About glory in the grievous land
When I looked up to see your portrait beaming
In an uncomely frame I had at hand.

The time had come and you left home for ever.
I threw the cherished ring into the night.
You gave your destiny to someone in your favour,
And I forgot your charming face all right.

Days, like a hateful swarm, flew by, a-whirling,
By passion and carouse my life was done...
And I remembered you before the lectern, darling,
I called you like my youth, now past and gone.

I called your name but somehow you looked down,
I cried — you didn't care about my mood;
You wrapped yourself up in a dark blue gown,
It was wet night when you left home for good.

My love, I don't know where you've settled down
And where you've found a shelter for your pride...
I'm fast asleep, and I can see the gown
You were wearing as you left home that night.

To dream about caress I won't be able
For youth is past and gone, along with fame!
So I have put your portrait off the table,
Your lovely face in an uncomely frame!

Translated by Alec Vagapov