I am the bird that flutters against your window in the morning,
and your closest friend, whom you can never know,
blossoms that light up for the blind.

I am the glacier shining over the woods, so pale,
and heavy voices from the cathedral tower.
The thought that suddenly hits you in the middle of the day
and makes you feel so fantastically happy.

I am the one you have loved for many years.
I walk beside you all day and look intently at you
and put my mouth against your heart
though you’re not aware of it.

I am your third arm, and your second
shadow, the white one,
whom you cannot accept,
and who can never forget you.

translated  by Robert Bly

I cut in two
A long November night, and
Place half under the coverlet,
Sweet-scented as a spring breeze.
And when he comes, I shall take it out,
Unroll it inch by inch, to stretch the night.

translated by Peter H. Lee

drop a line
and wait
patience
persistence
luck
bring home
the fish
of your dreams

playing pool
in some local bar
whiskey sips
between shots
neither keeping
the score
the playing
what’s important
not  who wins
it always was
that way
40 odd years
sworn brothers
from bell bottoms
to gray hair
if being an outlaw
is living
by one’s own rules
then heaven
was never an option
uncharted territory
is where you both
are headed
with Honky Tonk Heroes
full blast
on the tape player
of that ’66 Mustang
you’re driving

here
I sit
your ring
on my finger
these long years
drinking coffee
watching ships
at sea
and thinking
of your dreams
unfulfilled
hoping
one day
when we meet
again
you will
approve