Osip Mandelshtam
The Egyptian

I built my wealthy home; it is a real feat,
All made of solid wood; no marble slab, no tiling,
My flowers, fountain, and vineyard seemed beguiling
To noble visitors, those of the royal suite.

To fill my rooms with sun and air, as I like
Three heavy walls were taken down by my order,
And I chose wisely for the open entrance border
Three stately palm trees — tall and straight as spikes.

High ranks have income of a special sort;
We dignitaries are eternal and immortal!
(Send for the foreman now! The mausoleum portal
Must soon be done; I need his full report.)

My servant works the grist to grind the mealy grain,
The usual tithes of flax and wheat have been collected;
The registers of goods are properly inspected:
From duties to the priests I never will refrain

My loyal dog is at my feet, stretched on the floor,
His head between the lion paws of my grand chair.
The pleasant smell of roasted goose makes me aware
Of earned eternity ,which I am destined for.

Translated by Olga Dumer