English translation by Rolf-Peter Wille of Rainer Maria Rilke's sonnet II 29 ("Stiller Freund der vielen Fernen") from "Sonette an Orpheus" (1922)
Silent friend of spans uncounted, feel,
how your breath will yet increase the space.
In the timberwork of belfries, peal
through the darkness. What consumes your face,
grows to strength beyond the food thus offered.
Walk through wandring shape without confine.
What has been your deepest sorrow suffered?
Is your drinking bitter, turn to wine.
Be you in this night of boundless plenty
witchcraft at the crossroads of your senses,
be their magical encounter’s sense.
And, your shape forgotten by the earthly,
to the silent earth say: “I am flowing”.
To the fleeting water speak: “I am”.
translated by Rolf-Peter Wille (2023)
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