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Open Poetry #5
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Master
Senior Member
since 1999-08-18
Posts 1867
Boston, MA

0 posted 2000-02-07 12:16 PM


* And yet, I've translated another poem/song. This time it's from V. Vysotsky, a famous Russian bard.

If your friend just became a man,
Not a friend not a foe, just so,
When you cannot tell from the start,
If the guy is strong in his heart, --
To the peaks take this man -- don’t fret!
Do not leave him alone in awe,
Let him share the same view with you--
Then you’ll know if he’s true.

If the guy on the peak got weak,
If he lost all his care -- got scared,
Took a step on the frost -- got lost,
If he screamed in exhaust, —
Then the one you held close is false,
Do not try to protect— reject,--
We can’t take those aboard, and in short
We don’t sing of his sort.

If the guy didn’t whine nor pine,
He was dull and upset, but went,
And when you sliped from the cliff,
He heaved, holding you in his grip;
If he walked right along, seemed strong,
On the top stood like he belonged,--
In that case, you, as on yourself,
Can rely on his help!



[This message has been edited by Master (edited 02-07-2000).]

© Copyright 2000 Andrey Kneller - All Rights Reserved
Master
Senior Member
since 1999-08-18
Posts 1867
Boston, MA
1 posted 2000-02-07 03:49 PM


One of the ways to test a true friend is to put him in a very difficult situation and see how he responds, that's what the poem is about.
Danny Holloway
Member Elite
since 2000-01-15
Posts 2034
Tulsa, OK
2 posted 2000-02-19 11:01 AM


Certainly a good way to test a friend.  But I think that true friends don't need to be tested.  It's a knowing that goes beyond having to say or do. It almost goes to spiritual.
Anyway, interesting poem to read.
DH

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