Marina Tsvetaeva
Sending loved ones off on their way...

Sending loved ones off on their way,
I sing songs for them to acquire,
For a memory’s sake, all that they,
Once, themselves, had gifted me prior.

Down a green and shimmering lane,
To the crossroad, I walk my beloveds.
Wind, keep singing for them, do not wane,
And you, road there, do not be so rugged!

Blue-grey cloud, do not spill a tear, —
They are dressed up as if to a banquet!
Hold your tongue, snake, whenever they’re near,
Toss your merciless knife away, bandit.

You there, passer-by beauty become
A most joyful host, like no other.
Work your smile for me till its numb —
You’ll be paid by the Heavenly Father!

Fires, burn in the woods, by and by,
Chase away all the beasts till they scurry.
Blessed Mother, up high in the sky,
Keep an eye on them all on their journey! 

Translated by Andrey Kneller