If Your Parachute Doesn't Open

by Evgeni Vinokurov

 

If you pull your emergency ring in terror
And the parachute behind you doesn't open
And far far underneath is only forest
And it's absolutely certain nothing can save you
And you've nothing left anywhere to hold onto
And nothing to meet any longer on your way --
Then spread out your arms,
                                                  like a bird,
                                                                      soaring;
Embrace the void in front of you, and fly.

No where to go back to and no time to go crazy
And only one finale, for better or worse.
Be bold. Be elegant, for once in your life;
Falling with your arms around the universe.

Translated from the Russian by Rudi Matic