I taught myself to live simply and wisely
to look at the sky and pray to God
and to wander long before evening
to tire my useless sadness.

When the burdocks rustle in the ravine
and the yellow-red rowanberry cluster droops
I write down happy verses
about life's decay, decay and beauty.

I come back. The fluffy cat
licks my palm, purrs so sweetly,
and the fire flares bright
on the saw-mill turret by the lake.

Only the cry of a stork landing on the roof
occasionally breaks the silence.
If you knock on my door
I may not even hear.

Anna Achmatova (1889-1966)
translated from Russian by Richard McKane


This poem is dated 1912. But it is still young and fresh and universal. Anna Achmatova is one of my most beloved poets and i have translations in several languages. Wish i could understand Russian...
She is an outstanding poet and an outstanding woman as well.
If you have the chance to read her or about her life, do not hesitate, she is wonderful.

Have a nice Monday!