Pablo Neruda

From Veinte poemas de amor y una de desconsolación

Poem X

We have already lost this twilight.
Nobody saw us this evening with our hands united
as night descended blue over the world.

From my window I have seen
the festival of the west wind on faraway hills.

At times, like a coin,
a shard of sun would burst into flames between my hands.

I would recall you with my soul clenched
by that sadness you know I have.

So, where were you?
In what company?
Saying what words?
Why does all my love suddenly return to me
when I feel sad, and know you are far away?

The book I always take down at twilight fell,
and my cloak encircled my feet like a wounded dog.

Always, always you depart in the evening
to where the twilight runs erasing statues.