Up out of an evil clinging pool

* * *

Up out of an evil clinging pool I grew, whispering like a reed, Breathing the forbidden life Passionately, languidly and tenderly.

And I bend over back into the cold refuge of the swamp, Marked by no-one, Met by the welcoming rustle Of the brief autumnal moments.

I'm happy with this cruel affront And in this dream-like life I envy every other secretly And am secretly in love with each.

 

Из омута злого и вязкого (Мандельштам)