Translation of a poem by Innokenty Annensky, written in 1902

Why..

Why
As reveries have changed,
So full of allurement are words?
What for on the forgotten grave
Now greener the grass grows?
What for those moonlit heights
If my garden is somber and numb?..
Her braids when unplaited become
Its sighs I am listening to...
Why?

PrEmJi PrEmJi
What for on the forgotten grave Now greener the grass grows?/ the pain is beyond words

iverhyck
Well written. Yes, if you translate a talented writer, you should be talented too. Konstantin.

Munia Khan
I am always the biggest fan of reflective verses..and this one strikes every cord of my very senses....Wow!! Amazing work Yel !!! Simply beautiful :-)

Bob Blackwell
When we reflect like this, ask eternal question Why, it helps our soul to grow closer to the natural things of life. Beautiful translation, I loved it.

 

Mark L. Berryann
A captivating piece of poetry?

Karin Anderson
Such a haunting reflective poem Yelena. I was captured by 'her braids when unplaited become its sighs I am listening to! Your genius for translation shows through so well.

Raj Arumugam
very lyrical and magical lines...Thanks for the translation - what language is the original in? Your translation reads so well.

heterodynemind
Wow, my socks are blistered now. This is heavenly. Something about the intricacy of the arrangement just trips my switch!! Alluring it is. :)

Keith Robinson
To be able to write this masterfully...

Sandra Martyres
Thank you Yelena for sharing this work of Innokenty Annesky...."Her braids when unplaited become Its sighs I am listening to..." so original