I discovered this beautifully simple cabin/hut/den while walking through Hadstock, Essex, on Wednesday. The elegantly written text in Swedish can be literally (machine) translated as:
“I have written a preface to what I would have said.
But I have deleted it. – However, I wish
That before the dark pool over me
The last you see of me
Shall be a closed fist among water lilies
And the last thing you hear a word of bubbles
From the bottom.”
A creative transliteration renders it as:
“I have written an introduction
But it is now lost – But I hope
That before the waters sweep over me
You will see my triumphant fist among the lilies
And hear my last words bubbling up.”
It’s from ‘Among Waterlilies’ by Gunnar Ekelöf – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunnar_Ekel%C3%B6f
Read more of his (down beat) poetry – http://www.ekelut.dk/poems/e_p5en.html
Thanks to Dave Horan for the translation and sourcing
Photo: Hadstock, Essex, February 2015
Just discovered this author by reading latest lisbeth salandar book . I without gushing enjoyed your post
Thank you for your kind words.
I also much appreaciate your translation.
Not my translation, but I’m happy to pass it on.
I too discovered this poem while reading. The Girl Who Takes An Eye For An Eye. How quickly time passes by. It’s vitality important for all of us to enjoy each moment because, no one regardless of age is guaranteed seeing the sun rise tomorrow.
Thank you, this poem is so meaningful.
Read this as well and ponder upon its meaning.
Robert Frost’s
“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”
The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
This poem reassures me that whatever my problems-and I have more than a few, I have miles to go in my life and promises to keep
Thank you, Randy, I’m pleased it struck a chord with you.
Frost’s words are very moving, I’ve not come across them before.
Yes, miles to go and no assurance that we will finish the journey, so each little step is precious.