08 June 2011

you see I want a lot


You see, I want a lot - perhaps I want everything
The darkness that comes with every infinite fall
and the shivering blaze of every step up.

So many live on and want nothing
and are raised to the rank of prince
by the slippery ease of their light judgements.

But what you love to see are faces that do work and feel thirst.
You love most of all those who need you
as they need a crowbar or a hoe.

You have not grown old, and it is not too late to dive into
your increasing depths, where life calmly gives out its own secret.


Rainer Maria Rilke
translated by Robert Bly

No comments: