TO DESTINY
When I struggle, calmness overwhelms me
hiding your secret from me, Destiny;
don't let me falter in my path, because
without questioning I obey you blindly.
Don't give me time to complain or beg;
spur me on without stopping,
and, like a sleepless pilgrim, let me
carry with me the fire from my hearth.
I want to win my peace through war;
I want to conquer the impossible dream;
don't let me rest from trying to shed light
on the enigma within your heart,
and when I return to the bosom of the earth
let me deserve an ever-lasting peace.
[1901]
Miguel de Unamuno
Translation by Armand F. Baker