Anna Akhmatova
The heavens sow a light rain...

The heavens sow a light rain
On the blooming lilac shrub.
While, outside, the white Whit Monday
Beats its wings, ascending up.

And today’s — a closing date,
My dear friend returns from sea.
Shores and towers, as of late,
In my dreams, appear to me.

Climbing up the final tower,
I ascend to greet the light…
But, only swamps and fields abound,
There’s no tower here in sight.

On the threshold, I’ll sit lightly,
There, the shadows are still dense.
Come and aid me, white Whit Monday,
Ease this worry and suspense!

Translated by Andrey Kneller