Thursday, January 31, 2013
Monday, January 28, 2013
Friday, January 18, 2013
Poem by Yan Guo
A walk
What goes into your head when you try to not
think of anything.
Who goes into your heart when you try to keep
everyone from entering.
Where does a snowflake end up when the wind
fails to be its wings.
How do all the promises fit into two little
rings.
Walking up the hill, embracing the tender
chill;
Closing up my eyes, giving back the 'hi'
s.
The flag is battling fiercely with the
pole;
Smell of similarity, cozying up my
world.
The white used to be so pure, so pure and so
perfect.
It has now been ruined, ruined with no
respect.
Like Holden tried to fix the walls, I eagerly crave
spring;
When all brightness will fade into a lovely green.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Translations of Beppe Salvia
Several translations by Nick Benson from the Italian of the poetry of Beppe Salvia are in the latest MPT, issue 3:18, 'Transitions'. Salvia (1954-1985) is not well known outside poetry circles in Italy. A good piece reviewing a 2004 selection of his work was just posted on the blog blanc de ta nuque, here. His poetry reminds me of Edwin Denby and Antonia Pozzi and Frank O'Hara. So that must mean he's not like anyone else! Here's another translation of a Salvia poem, which is not in MPT.
My fits have passed
and I’ve found a job. I’m less
anxious and look better; I’ve had some luck.
It’s spring now and I spend
my free time walking the streets. I watch
those who’ve known no pain and remember
the lost days. I waste my time
with my friends, and suffer a little still
from loneliness.
I have time now to read and write;
maybe I’ll go on a trip, or maybe I won’t.
I am happy, and sad. I am distracted,
and as I wander, realize what was lost.
Translation by Nick Benson of Beppe Salvia, 'I miei malanni si sono acquietati,' in Un solitario amore (Roma: Fandango, 2006), p. 162.
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