Bella Akhmadulina
December

The rules of winter we obey.
We roll a snowball and run after,
Acclaim its growth with peals of laughter,
And brush the surplus snow away.

As if misfortune were in view,
The people passing by assemble
Along the fence with lips atremble
To watch what you and I shall do.

We make a snowman — that is all!
O what a triumph when from under
Your hands appears the chosen wonder,
To your prescription, stout and tall!

You say: "Just look what I can do!"
I notice with what skill and passion
From formlessness new form you fashion
And say: "I love you, I love you!"

With what exactness snow can trace
The very features we intended!
hen suddenly I see resplendent,
The sidelong profile of your face.

Scorning the crowd we walk away
Across the yard with self-possession.
With such a child's intent expression
May you, beloved, always play!

To his long-lasting labour yield,
O handiwork of my beloved!
Grant the reward a child discovers
On painting flowers in a field!

Translated by Peter Tempest