Rima LXIX

by Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer
translated by H. Landman


In a bright flash of lightning we are born
and before its brilliance fades we die;
     so short is life.

The glory and the love after which we chase
are shadows we pursue in a dream:
     To awaken is to die!

Al brillar un relámpago nacemos
y aún dura su fulgor cuando morimos;
     tan corto es el vivir.

La gloria y el amor tras que corremos
sombras de un sueño son que perseguimos:
     ¡Despertar es morir!


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Copyright ©2001,2003 Howard A. Landman / howard@polyamory.org
Created 2001 December 1
Last updated 2003 August 15