Ivan Bunin
Rakhil`s tomb

«She passed away, and was interred by Jacob
Beside the road...» And on the tomb, no sight
Of any name, inscription and no mark up.

At nighttime, there’s a gleaming feeble light,
And whitewashed with chalk, the grave’s cupola
With enigmatic paleness is attired.

I’m timidly approaching as the night falls
And kiss the dust and chalk in awe and thrill
Of this tombstone, artless, white, and cold

The sweetest of the earthly words! Rakhil!

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* Rakhil is the Russian equivalent for Rachel 

Translated by Maya Jouravel