Konstantin Balmont
I came into this world to see the sunshine...

I came into this world to see the sunshine,
        The sky-line's bluish lights.
I came into this world to see the sunshine,
        And mountain-heights.

I came into this world to see the ocean,
        The valley's rich array.
I in a single gaze saw worlds in motion,
        Where I held sway.

I triumphed o'er oblivion's chill concealment,
        I shaped my pondering.
Filled was my every moment with revealment,
        I ever sing.

My pondering was roused by tribulation, —
        But thus my love it won.
Who is my like in strength of tune-creation?
        Not one, not one.

I came into this world to see the sunshine,
        And when day's wane is nigh,
Then will I sing . . . then will I sing of sunshine,
        Before I die.

Translated by Paul Selver