Old Man
Old Man - fact Summary
Reflection on Aging and Youth
The poem presents an aging speaker who mourns the loss of youthful passion and public fascination. Addressing Cupid/Eros, he recalls former loyalty to love and expresses a wish to be reborn in order to serve love more fervently. The tone mixes regret and longing rather than anger. This reflects Pushkin’s meditation on aging and the fading of earlier vitality and desire.
Read Complete AnalysesI’m not that lover, filled with passion, — That youth, who left the world amazed: Alas, my spring and summer passed now, And didn’t leave a single trace. Cupid, the god of youth and love and virtue! I used to be your steadfast servant; Oh, if I could be reborn, — I’d serve you Even more passionate and fervent! Translated by Andrey Kneller Old man I am no more the ardent lover Who caused the world such vast amaze: My spring is past, my summer over, And dead the fires of other days. Oh, Eros, god of youth! your servant Was loyal — that you will avow. Could I be born again this moment, Ah, with what zest I'd serve you now! Translated by Babette Deutsch Old man I am no more that passioned lover, Once the world's most marvelous face: My spring and wondrous golden summer Forever gone without a trace. Oh Cupid, god of days of yore! I was your faithful servant then; If only to be born once more, Oh how I'd serve you yet again! Translated by Christopher Alan Tessone
Feel free to be first to leave comment.