translation by Patty Crane
Two Cities
Each on its own side of a strait, two cities
one plunged into darkness, under enemy control.
In the other the lamps are burning.
The luminous shore hypnotizes the blacked-out one.
I swim out in a trance
on the glittering dark waters.
A muffled tuba-blast breaks in.
It’s a friend’s voice, take your grave and go.
Contributor’s notes: Tomas Tranströmer
Contributor’s notes: Patty Crane
Sorrow Gondola (Sorgegondolen) Introduction & Suite Contents
Sorrow Gondola Table of Contents