Innokenty Annensky
Awakening

The bright enchantment is
Ended, the heart has awoken
Empty; in the heart, as after a
Fire, goes suffocating smoke.

“Finished” — a pitiful word; do
Not fear a pitiful word: soon in
The remnants of the past, even
Through smoke I shall understand.

That which did not want deception —
All will be left with me...
Behind the mist’s sootiness the sun is
Yellow, like a patient risen from bed.

Your fate, O heart, is understood —
Do not touch the old ashes...
The accursed Fire will touch
Your black walls no more!

Translated by R. H. Morrison