Sophia Parnok
I’m yearning, the way animals yearn...

I’m yearning, the way animals yearn,
With each yearning bone in my back,
And my heart — is like a door’s bell
That someone keeps ringing.

Quiver, empty bell,
Ring your alarm, trembling…
It’s time to head to the dump! And I’m not sorry
To end our shared life before it ends me…

So long, my graying Muse,
The fire of my departed days.
To my exhausted heart
You were once the music of musics!

I no longer bow at your bed.
I no longer listen for your sighs.
It’s terrible, but: I no longer love you,
Not even with the passion of hate.

Translated by Rainie Oet