Marina Tsvetaeva - How Many Plunged Down This Abyss?

Marina Tsvetaeva was one of the major poets of the Russian Silver Age (early 20th century). This is a rhyming and rhythmic translation of one of her most popular verses, set to music against a montage of photos of Tsvetaeva. One stanza skipped. Text: How many plunged down this abyss, I measure from afar? The day comes when I won't exist. My planet, au revoir! All will chill that sang and strove, Burst forth and radiantly glowed, My green eyes, tender voice of love, And waving hair of gold. And living, with its daily bread, The day oblivious, Will all remain; sky overhead, As though I never was. My face as fickle as a child's As soon forgets its spite, When stoves burn wood, I am beguiled; Make cinders in my sight. Cellos and cavalcades in the woods, Let village bells all toll, For me, so lively, who once stood Upon the good earth whole. To all of you - I know no bounds, For me or any other - My faith demands for me be found Some love, as for a brother. Night and day, do write and say, You love my 'yes' and 'no', Because at twenty years of age, I've lived through too much woe. Because it cannot be avoided My offenses must be pardoned, My tenderness too overjoyed and My look too proud and hardened. Because events can move too fast, For my games, for I don't lie, - And listen - when the rest is past, Love me because I'll die.