Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Lea Goldberg poem, week of Jan 16 '06

Lea Goldberg (1911–1970), Israeli poet. Translation by Rachel Tzvia Black

Toward Myself

The years have made up my face
with memories of love
and have adorned my hair with light silver threads
making me most beautiful.

In my eyes
landscapes are reflected.
And the paths I have trod
have strengthened my stride-
tired and lovely steps.

If you should see me now
you would not recognize your yesterdays-
I am walking toward myself
bearing the face you searched for in vain
when I was walking toward you.

(From, "Selected Poetry and Drama," Toby Press, 2005, translated by Rachel
Tzvia Black and prose by T. Carmi)

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