SIMPLE VERSES

I have seen the sprouting of wings
From the shoulders of beautiful women
And the coming forth of butterflies
From piles of rubble.


.............


Well do I know that when the world,
Pale with exhaustion, gives over
To rest, the murmur of a tranquil brook
Floats above the deep silence.

I have dared to stretch my hand,
Stiff with horror and joy,
To the extinguished star
That fell at my door.

from
Simple Verses
José Martí
translated by Mark Weiss