Beyond Land and Time

Death at the Turn of this Century

(Ei Shôtābdi Shôndhi-tє Mrittyu)

Translated by Syed Manzoorul Islam

We were born on a dislocated day

            And we die

            At a sicklier time.

The shadows of tall, white walls far and near

Bring back his memories in fear—if we make an effort

to remember—

            Here, wisdom leads to pain.

Or, taking leave from pain and hiding alone

In the cold lake of consolation, the lonely columns of crystal

Will crumble, and the awed thighs of man will be crushed

            by a delightful warrior.

There is no death in hell, as well—no love in paradise.

On earth, the intellectuals keep spreading an honest doubt

About heaven and hell, with a belief that runs out of steam.