My new translation of a Cavafy poem
Whoever has failed
Whoever has failed, whoever deteriorated,
with what difficulty shall he learn the new language
and the new ways, of now being poor.
How shall he arrive to the pitiful houses of others!
With what heart shall he walk down the street
and upon reaching the door where will he find
the strength to reach for the door-bell.
For the gratification of the base need of bread,
and for having a roof above him, how will he be thankful!
How will he face the cruel glances
which will be revealing to him that he is a burden!
How will the proud lips now
start to be speaking humbly;
and the raised head how much will now bow down!
How will he listen to the speech which rips apart
his ears with its every new word – and still
you should act as if you don’t feel them.
As if you are a simpleton and don’t grasp anything at all.
A thought-provoking poem, thank you for the translation, nicely done!
A new translation... this time of Cavafy's prose-poem "Julian's Initiation Ritual".
A rather Lovecraftian (if you'd excuse the anachronism) piece by Cavafy
I see what you mean, this poem creates a very Lovecraftian atmosphere!