Poetry contributes to creative diversity, by questioning anew our use of words and things, our modes of perception and understanding of the world. Through its associations, its metaphors and its own grammar, poetic language is thus conceivably another facet of the dialogue among cultures. Diversity in dialogue, free flow of ideas by word, creativity and innovation. World Poetry Day is an invitation to reflect on the power of language and the full development of each person’s creative abilities.
In order to celebrate the occasion, I am posting a German poem in English translation.
Here is the English version I made of Rose Ausländer's poem "Gemeinsam". If you know of other translations (either by professional translators or by amateurs such as myself), please post them in the comments (biographical note on the author, Rose Ausländer).
TogetherNever forgetFriendswe travel togetherwe climb hillspick raspberrieslet ourselves be borneby the four windsNever forgetit is our ownshared worldthe undivided oneoh, the divided onewhich lets us blossomwhich breaks us apartthis tornundivided earthon which wetravel together
