Osip Mandelshtam
Petropolis Dying

Upon the ghastly fearsome heights a quaver of fire-light,
But can it be a star so glitters, crying?
O star’s transparent hue, with shimmer dazzling bright,
Thy brother named Petropolis is dying.

Upon the frightful gruesome heights all earthly dreams are churning,
The greenness of that star-bright terrifying,
O star, if thou art brother to the sky and waters’ yearning,
Thy brother named Petropolis is dying.

A monstrous ship a-sail moves upon dim terror’s heights,
Its wings widespread, the mist-spray stultifying,
In destitution-green, O star, in hues of needy whites,
Thy brother named Petropolis is dying.

Transparent season Spring that sags above Neva’s black water
Is shattered now, immortal wax melts, sighing;
Behold, O star, thy precious Petrine world is rife with slaughter,
Thy brother, dear Petropolis, is dying.

Translated by U. R. Bowie