Trinity Journal of Literary Translation
House with a Garden
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trans. Caroline Boreham
I’d like to have a country house
With a very big garden—not so much
For the flowers, for the trees, and the greenery
(certainly those should be found there as well; they’re gorgeous little things1) But to have animals. Oh but to have animals! At least seven cats—two completely black,
And two like snow, completely white, for the contrast. A magnificent parrot, so that I might listen
To it say things with emphasis and conviction.
Concerning dogs, I think three would suffice me.
I would also like two horses (horseys are great fun). And undoubtedly three, four of those invaluable, Those endearing animals, the donkeys,
So that they may sit idly and hold their heads up contentedly2.
1 2
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