Jiří Suchý: On Non-Reconciliation

I can reconcile with everything
but not with everyone
that's something I still need to learn

          well then hurry up
          you're not so young anymore
          and for that matter even your enemies
          your dear and beloved enemies
          are getting older and leaving
          in a moment you won't have anyone to reconcile with

I see
it's high time to start

          but
          you know that to live without enemies
          means to be abandoned by the most faithful?

          a friend can forsake you
          enemies remain

yes
I know
and therefore
the enmities I once founded
I mustn't destroy with any irresponsible reconciliation
if I wish not to end up abandoned in my old age




Translated from the Czech by Michael Allen