Anna Akhmatova

A widow in black -- the crying fall
Covers all hearts with a depressing cloud...
While her man's words are clearly recalled,
She will not stop her lamentations loud.
It will be so, until the snow puff
Will give a mercy to the pined and tired.
Forgetfulness of suffering and love --
Though paid by life -- what more could be desired?

Translated by Yevgeny Bonver, August, 2000
Edited by Dmitry Karshtedt, February, 2001