Monday, September 8, 2014

Satyabaddha Abhiman, Sunil Gangopadhyay



This hand has touched Nira's face
How can I do anything wrong with this hand?
In the verandah of that late afternoon
An amazing brave light fell on her face
Like a telegram, in a second her beauty unveiled
Was it a smile that lingered in her eyes and her brows, or were they tears?
I wanted to call that young woman a girl at that moment -
Raising my right hand I stare at my male fist
I will it,
be worthy, become worthy -
I touch Nira's chin
This hand, it has touched Nira's face
How can I ever do anything wrong again with this hand?
These lips, they have spoken of love with Nira -
Can I bring myself to lie with them?
As I come down the steps I remember
That most important thing that I have forgotten to say
An unknown wind will blow this gentle swan-like woman away
A sudden earthquake will destroy all the steps
I stand transfixed, my eyes on Nira
Love is like an intense pledge, an illusion
Promises that I must honour, my eyes burn
As I stand on the steps
These lips have spoken of love with Nira -
Can I bring myself to lie with them?

Sunil Gangopadhyay, Satyabaddha Abhimaan
(Translation, mine)


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