Sentry of the Silent, and: End of Solemnities, and: Predecessor

SENTRY OF THE SILENT /RenéChar translatedby Charles Guenther The stones crowded together in the wall and men lived on the stones' moss. The heart of night carried a rifle and women no longer lay in childbirth. Dishonor had the look of a glass of water. I've joined in the courage of a few people, I've lived violently, without aging, with my mystery in their midst, and I've trembled at the existence of all other beings, like a leaky boat floating over partitioned depths. 26 ¦ The Missouri Review END OF SOLEMNITIES /RenéChar translatedby Charles Guenther Strengthened by the bounty of a winter fruit, 1 brought fire into the house. The civilization of storms was dripping at the edge of the roof. I'll be able at leisure to despise tradition, to dream of frosty passersby on no particular paths. But to whom can I entrust my unborn children? Solitude was deprived of its spices, the white flame was engulfed, offering only an expiring gesture from its warmth. Without solemnity I cross this walled world: I'll love, coatless, that which trembled under me. The Missouri Review · 27 PREDECESSOR /RenéChar translatedby Charles Guenther I've recognized in a rock a flown, measurable death, the open bed of its little confederates under the shelter of a fig tree. No sign of a stonecutter: every morning of the earth opened its wings at the foot of the steps of night. Without repetition, relieved from the fear of men, I dig in the air my grave and my return. 28 · The Missouri Review ...