SATURNALIA

Let my love -- a sharp rapier -- prick your heart,
Let your nipples sputter on your breasts,
May the remembrance of your bleeding sorrow
Bring flames, along with soothing salve.

May the time of leering arrive on time,
Meeting at a distant, intimate place --
You, an actress, I, an attending deacon,
Let us celebrate the sacraments of blood…

… Let my love -- a sharp rapier -- prick your heart,
May it bring fire, along with healing salve,
May you relive the arousal of roses on fire,
May your nipples sputter on your breasts…


VARAND
Translated By: Tatul Sonentz