Andrey Voznesenskiy — I am your extended wife...

I am your extended wife.

But you have a wife - immediate.

I am needed in your life.

I commiserate completely.

I know your child holds you back.

With you arms around me wound,

You are staring at the clock –

I won’t even make a sound. 

In God’s name, do not stand still…

You were meant to be together.

My extended sister will 

Make your bed, it’s for the better.

On the train, I’ll flee from love,

Jealousy will drive me crazy!

Staring at your photograph,

I’ll be sure to pack a razor.

1971

By Andrei Voznesenky

Translation by Andrey Kneller