Songs

Sbohem a šáteček Viteslav Nezval, 'Waving farewell'

by Vítězslava Kaprálová

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Translation

Waving farewell
English translation © Mimi Doulton

Farewell, and if we never see each other again
It was wonderful, and it was enough.

Farewell, and if we were to arrange another meeting
It is possible that I will not come, but someone else will.

It was wonderful
But everything has an end.
Keep silent, tolling bell, keep silent
That sorrow I know.
A kiss, a handkerchief, a siren, a ship’s bell,
Three, four smiles
And then to be alone.

Farewell, and if we have nothing more to say,
Let us leave behind small memories,
Like a handkerchief, simpler than a postcard,
And a little enticing like the fragrance of gold.

And if I have seen what others have not,
That is better, oh swallow
Who looks for its native home.

You showed me the south
Where you have your nest in the wardrobe
Your destiny is flight, my destiny is song.

Farewell, and if that was the last time
Even worse, no hope – nothing – from you will remain.
If you want to meet again,
Then it’s better we don’t get carried away…

Farewell – a wave of the ’kerchief,
Fulfil yourself, fate!

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