
"Woe has settled in my misty heart.
Why am I known as a charlatan?
Why am I known as a brawler?
I’m not a villain.
I haven’t robbed anyone in the forest.
I haven’t shot wretches in dungeons.
I’m merely a street rake Smiling at
passing faces. I’m a mischievous
Moscow playboy. In Tver, every
neighborhood dog Recognizes my
breezy gait In the backstreets.
Every bedraggled horse Nods its
head to greet me. I’m a good friend
to the animals, Healing them with
my verses. My top hat is not to
impress the women.
My heart can’t bear meaningless
passion. It makes it easier, soothing
my sadness, To give gold oats to a mare.
I have no friends among people. I’m
loyal to a different kingdom. I’m ready
to put my best tie On the neck of any
local hound. Now I won’t hurt any
longer. Swamp is drained in my murky
heart. This is why I’m known as a charlatan.
This is why I’m known as a brawler."
\
Sergei Yesenin