My First Inspiration -English translation of Mi Primera Inspiracion

by José Rizal

(A Translation from the Spanish by Nick Joaquin)
For the Spanish version go to Mi Primera Inspiracion


Why falls so rich a spray 
of fragrance from the bowers 
of the balmy flowers 
upon this festive day? 

Why from woods and vales 
do we hear sweet measures ringing 
that seem to be the singing 
of a choir of nightingales? 


Why in the grass below 
do birds start at the wind's noises, 
unleashing their honeyed voices 
as they hop from bough to bough? 

Why should the spring that glows 
its crystalline murmur be tuning 
to the zephyr's mellow crooning 
as among the flowers it flows? 

Why seems to me more endearing, 
more fair than on other days, 
the dawn's enchanting face 
among red clouds appearing? 


The reason, dear mother, is 
they feast your day of bloom: 
the rose with its perfume, 
the bird with its harmonies. 


And the spring that rings with laughter 
upon this joyful day 
with its murmur seems to say: 
"Live happily ever after!" 


And from that spring in the grove 
now turn to hear the first note 
that from my lute I emote 
to the impulse of my love!

Post a Comment

Previous Post Next Post