I’ve decided to return to the emperor’s court

once more I shall see if it’s possible to live there

I could stay here in this remote province

under the full sweet leaves of sycamores

under the rule of sickly nepotists

when I return I don’t intend to commend myself

I shall applaud in measured portions

smile in ounces frown discreetly

for that they will not give me a golden chain

this iron one will suffice

I’ve decided to return tomorrow or the next day

I cannot live among vineyards nothing here is mine

trees have no roots houses no foundations the rain is glassy flowers smell of wax

a dry cloud rattles against the empty sky

so I shall return tomorrow the next day in any case I shall return

I must come to terms with my face again

with my lower lip so it knows how to check scorn

with my eyes so they remain ideally empty

and with that miserable chin the hare of my face

which trembles when the chief of guards walks in

of one thing I am sure I will not drink wine with him

when he brings his goblet nearer I will lower my eyes

and pretend I’m picking bits of food from between my teeth

besides the emperor likes courage of convictions

to a certain extent to a certain reasonable extent

he is after all a man like everyone

and already tired by all those tricks with poison

he cannot drink his fill incessant chess

this left cup is for Drusus from the right one pretend to sip

then drink only water never lose sight of Tacitus

take a walk in the garden and return when the corpse has been removed

I’ve decided to return to the emperor’s court

I really hope that things will work out somehow