By the side of a well by R.Tagore translated by Ranu

December 13, 2012

Neem – the pharmacy tree (Photo credit: Tatters:))

I did not want anything from you  , I did not tell you my name,

when you said good bye I kept quiet.

I was sitting alone by the well in the shadow of the Neem tree,

they all left with their pitchers to the neighbourhood.

They  called me as they were leaving, ‘come the day is almost over.’

What kept me from moving what was I thinking.

I did not hear your footsteps when did you come.

You had a look of sadness __    you spoke with a very tired voice___

‘I am a distressed thirsty traveller.’  in a fit of surprise

I poured the water in your folded hands.

The rustling leaves trembled, the cuckoo was calling from somewhere__

the yellow flowers of the acacia tree  was spreading its aroma in the village path.

When you asked my name I was very shy__

what  have I done for you to remember me!

I was only able to give you some water to quench your thirst

I will cherish this in my memory.

By the side of the well, the birds chirp just like before in the afternoon,

the leaves tremble in the same manner___ I remain seated.

Neem flowers in closeup (Photo credit: Wikipedia)