Alexander Blok
Worlds, years go by. The universe is bare...

Worlds, years go by. The universe is bare.
Its eyes of gloom are staring at us.
And you, my soul, worn-out, unaware,
Hold forth that happiness will come to pass...

And what is happiness? The chilly evenings
In darkening gardens, god-forsaken wood?
Or vicious taste of wine, and wanton feelings,
Perdition of the soul, and jovial mood?

Is happiness a moment, brief and solid?
Is it oblivion, a dream, and peace and quiet?..
As you wake up — it's flight again, so horrid,
Touching your heart, unknown crazy flight...

You take a breath — and see you"re out of danger...
That's where you feel a sudden push again!
The spinning-top set going by some stranger
Flies buzzing in a hurry, like insane.

As we get hold of sharp and sliding border
And listen to the buzzing sound of chime, —
Don't we go mad amidst the motley order
And change of made-up reasons, space and time?..

When will it stop? We won't be able, really,
To listen to this din without end...
How terrible it is ! How wild ! Extremely! —
Give me a hand, forget it all, my friend!

Translated by Alec Vagapov