Jiří Suchý: On Non-Reconciliation

I can reconcile with everything
but not with everyone
that's something I still need to learn

well then hurry up
you're not so young anymore
and for that matter even your enemies
your dear and beloved enemies
are getting older and leaving
in a moment you won't have anyone to reconcile with

I see
it's high time to start

but
you know that to live without enemies
means to be abandoned by the most faithful?

a friend can forsake you
enemies remain

yes
I know
and therefore
the enmities I once founded
I mustn't destroy with any irresponsible reconciliation
if I wish not to end up abandoned in my old age




Translated from the Czech by Michael Allen