Sergey Esenin
Self-deception is not in my nature...

Self-deception is not in my nature,
On my heart there weighs а thought appalling:
How come I have earned the reputation
Of а charlatan, а tavern-brawler?

I’m no thug, I've not stopped folk and stripped them,
Shot wretches in jail or other places.
I’m а rake, the kind you find in cities,
Greeting with а smile oncoming faces.

I’m а cheeky Moscow mischief-maker.
Go down al\ the highways and the byways,
Not а single dog there will mistake it —
My light tread at once he recognizes.

Every wretched horse, whose life's accursed,
Nods his head to me with kindly feeling.
I’m а good friend of all beasts, my verses
Bring to animal hearts а touch of healing.

I wear а top hat not for the ladies —
I can't stand such sentimental rubbish.
It's а cure for grief when with its aid I
Feed а mare her golden oats for supper.

As for people, I've no friends among them.
It's another kingdom I belong to.
My best necktie I'll give any mongrel
Here — an d readily, because I want to.

Now no longer shall I feel vexation,
My heart's murk is clearer, less appalling.
That was how I won the reputation
Of а charlatan, а tavern-brawler.

Translated by Peter Tempest