In Memoriam

To Kevin, 1983-2012

Et copiosa apud eum redemptio
Psalm 130

This morning Death

came for you.

Who sent her?

You, merciful God?

There is no cliché nor verse

that may console

when Death

knocks at the wrong door

at three in the morning.

Miguel Alejandro Valerio (Republica Dominicana)

English Translation by Florence Russo

***
Esta mañana la muerte/vino por ti./¿Quién la mandó?/¿Tu, Dios misericordioso? //

No hay cliché o verso/que consuele/cuando la muerte/llama a la puerta equivocada/
a las tres de la madrugada.