RIMA XXVII

I am afraid to see you awake;
asleep, I dare to look at you;
therefore, soul of my soul,
I watch you as you sleep.

You laugh while you are awake
            and your restless lips resemble
red lightning flashes that snake
            across a snowy sky.

Asleep, the corners of your mouth
            curve with a smile
that is soft like the luminous path
            of a sun that is dying…
            «So sleep!»

Awake, you watch, and as you watch
            your moist eyes shine
like a blue wave whose crest reflects
            the sparkling sunlight.

As you sleep, a tranquil glow seeps
            through your eyelids
like a transparent lampshade that emits
            its soothing light…
            «So sleep!»

Awake, you speak, and as you speak
            your vibrant words resemble
a rain of pearls that pours in torrents
            into a golden cup.

Asleep, in the faint murmur of your
            regular breathing
I hear a poem that my lovesick soul
            can understand…
            «So sleep!»

I have placed my hand
over my heart, so that its beating
will not be heard and disturb
the solemn stillness of the night.

I have closed the blinds
of your balcony so that
the dawn’s intrusive light
will not awaken you…
            «So sleep!»