Approach Me Not

Palmo

Approach me not.

I am not nectar, I’m not desire,

I’m not a shining pearl, nor sweet-tasting lips.

 

Approach me not.

I am not spring blossom, nor your possession,

I’m not ever-blessed youth,

I’m not sweet intoxicating love.

 

Approach me not.

I am charcoal, I am toxic steam,

I’m a mask that has lost its warmth,

I’m an empty house overflowing with tears.

 

Approach me not.

I am epilepsy, I am crime.

I’m a cold stone without care,

I am the pitiless executioner.

 

Approach me not.

I am a thorn, I am deception,

I’m life wrapped in suffering,

The injuring sword.

 

Approach me not.

I am a shackle, I am barbed-wire,

I’m the caged bird,

The kite that has lost all direction.

Never approach me.

 

I belong to no one.

 

Translated by Tenzin Dickyi & Dhondup Tashi Rekjong