CANCIÓN

by: Juan de Mena (1411-1456)

S I upon my pallet lie,

The greatest grief I know

Is thinking when I said "Good-bye"

To the breast I'm loving so.

 

In spite of all the woes I feel

Upon that parting thought,

At times my memories reveal

The mighty joys you brought.

So let the world a-whispering go

To tell why here I lie;

Because they know I've said "Good-bye"

To the breast I'm loving so.

 

I languish but I let none hear

How deep my sorrows are,

Although my griefs are quite as near

As your sweet balm is far.

And if it be the end they show

And death is coming nigh,

While living, let me say "Good-bye"

To the breast I'm loving so.

--Translated by Thomas Walsh

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