
Read the translators’ introduction to “A Trip to Świder” here.
1
On the Train
Excuse me, is this your stop?
Are you bothered by the draught?
No, only floury food bothers me.
Are you going to Świder?
Because I’m going to Świder.
Bączek’s the name, Bączek the director.
Did you hear? Some fellow called Bambino
crossed the Channel in a bucket!
Do you mind if I ask, what’s this?
A zither.
You see, there’s a lady there
who likes my playing, so it’s for her
I always take a zither when I go to Świder.
Where do you live?
On Józef Bem Street.
No ashtrays on this train.
Watch out, you’ve burnt a hole.
Only a stain, it’ll wash away.
Would you care to hear me play
“THE MOON IS HIDING BEHIND A CLOUD”?
The moon is hiding behind a