Mikhail Lermontov

I am so sad because I worship you,
I know: that your flourishing youth
Will not be spared by the gossip's persecution.
For every sunny day or bit of sweet illusion
You'll pay the fate with tears and your pine.
I'm sad... 'cause you're so gay and fine.


Translated by Yevgeny Bonver, June, 1998
Edited by Dmitry Karshtedt, May, 2001