Translated by A. Z. Foreman - Exegi Monumentum lyrics

We heard him say, "I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands." -Mark 14:58 I've reared a monument not built by human hands. The public path to it cannot be overgrown. With insubmissive head far loftier it stands Than Alexander's columned stone. No, I shall not all die. My soul in hallowed berth Of art shall brave decay and from my dust take wing, And I shall be renowned whilst on this mortal earth Even one poet lives to sing. Tidings of me shall spread through all the realm of Rus And every tribe in Her shall name me as they speak: The haughty western Pole, the east's untamed Tungus, North Finns and the south steppe's Kalmyk. And long shall I a man dear to the people be For how my lyre once quickened kindly sentiment, I in a tyrant age who sang of liberty, And mercy toward fallen men. To God and his commands pay Thou good heed, O Muse. To praise and slander both be nonchalant and cool. Demand no laureate's wreath, think nothing of abuse, And never argue with a fool.