"The Sun Has Wept Rose"

I am not a big fan of translated literature works of any kind. The culture that the language in the original work bolsters is bound to change its meaning or to lose at least an aspect of it when it's forced to be clad in a different language. BUT, all is so, given that you actually know the two cultures to begin with. I mean, it never was a problem for me until I actually went outside of my home country and learned the new language and its culture. Until then, you just don't know any better.

So, while I go through my favorite book at the moment, I have swallowed the notion that I am only getting a version with a cloudy veil over it, or a version that has been nibbled at a little bit. But hey, when ever did a poem become clear to a reader anyway, even if the original was written in her mother tongue? Besides, I have read the translator's introduction and what he had to say about the poet and his verses and other works that I adore and hold dear to my heart, and I have become quite fond of Mr. Schmidt himself due to his beautiful writing.


So I am completely giving my heart up to trust his English translation of my beloved "Arthur Rimbaud Complete Works." Bought on Amazon.com for about $30.00. Its original price: US$14,00. Brand new. Shipped from New York City. Sent in two weeks after order. I consider my money very well spent.

Here is just one of many reasons why I cannot put down the book every night since its arrival:

The sun has wept rose in the shell of your ears,
The world has rolled white from your back, your thighs;
The sea has stained rust the crimson of your breasts,
And Man has bled black at your sovereign side.

Now, try and defy me not to want to read and understand in original French version of this beauty.

Until next time,

Sak

p.s. Time for bed. Another one-hour date with Arthur before sleep.