Thomas Stearns Eliot
ASH WEDNESDAY

(fragment)


Because I cannot hope to turn again
Consequently I rejoice, having to construct something
Upon which to rejoice

And pray to Him to have mercy upon us
And I pray that I may forget
These matters that with myself I too much discuss
Too much explain

Because I do not hope to turn again
Let these words answer
For what is done, not to be done again
May the judgement not be too heavy upon me

This is the time of tension between dying and birth
The place of solitude where dreams cross

But when the voices shaken from the yew-tree drift away
Let the other yew be shaken and reply.


Travestation: Marcin Herich