The Most Ancient Names of Fire

Blessed are the lovers
for theirs is the grain of sand
that sustains the center of the seas.

Dazed by the play of fountains
they hear nothing
but the music sprinkled by their names.

Trembling, they cling to one another
like small frightened animals who tremble, knowing they will
                      die.

Nothing is alien to them.

Their only strength against the wind and tide
are the beautifying words of all existence: I love you.
We shall grow old together to the end.

Male and female ravens steal lovers' eyes,
their beautiful gestures, even the moon in their mirror
but not the fire

from which they are reborn.

--Roberto Sosa
translated by Jo Anne Engelbert