Mr. Cogito Meditates on Suffering

by Zbigniew Herbert (tr. John & Bogdana Carpenter)

All attempts to remove

the so-called cup of bitterness--

by reflection 

frenzied actions on behalf of homeless cats

deep breathing

religion--

failed

one must consent

gently bend the head

not wring the hands

make use of the suffering gently moderately

like an artificial limb

without false shame

but also without unnecessary pride

do not brandish the stump

over the heads of others

don't knock with the white cane

against the windows of the well-fed

drink the essence of bitter herbs

but not to the dregs

leave carefully

a few sips for the future

accept 

but simultaneously

isolate within yourself

and if it is possible

create from the matter of suffering

a thing or a person

play

with it

of course

play

entertain it

very cautiously

like a sick child

forcing at last

with silly tricks

a faint 

smile