Sergey Esenin
One by one we all are now departing...

One by one we all are now departing
For realms where silence and beatitude abide.
And I as well, perhaps, will soon be starting
To pack my bag and baggage for the ride.

Dear groves of oak and birches so resplendent,
And you, O earth! You too, sand-laden plains!
In parting with these things that drift ascendant,
An anguish in me reeks, my soul constrains.

All things that clothe the weary soul with flesh,
This world of transient charm too much I’ve loved.
Like aspen trees that spread their limbs afresh
And gaze on rosy waters from above.

The thoughts in silence that I’ve often pondered,
The many songs inside myself composed,
And notwithstanding worldly joys I’ve squandered,
I’m happy that I’ve lived and breathed, reposed,

That I’ve had women’s kisses I’m content,
Lolled on the grass, communed with flower beds,
And never to vindictiveness gave vent
By beating cats or doggies on the heads.

I know that Over There no thickets bloom resplendent,
No rye stalks bend their swan’s necks in the breeze.
That’s why the parting with the lovely things ascendant
Leaves plagued with pain my heart, with anguish squeezed.

I know that distant realm is lacking sorely
In golden-tufted wheat fields broadly spread.
That’s why I cherish friends, the ones who warmly
Clap me on the back and break black bread.

Translated by U. R. Bowie