TESTAMENT

When I die, then make my grave
High on an ancient mound,
In my own beloved Ukraine,
In steppeland without bound:
Whence one may see wide-skirted wheatland,
Dnipro's steep-cliffed shore,
There whence one may hear the blustering
River wildly roar.

Till from Ukraine to the blue sea
It bears in fierce endeavour
The blood of foemen - then I'll leave
Wheatland and hills forever:
Leave all behind, soar up until
Before the throne of God I'll make my prayer.
For, till that hour I shall know naught of God.

Make my grave there - and arise,
Sundering your chains,
Bless your freedom with the blood
Of foemen's evil veins!
Then in that great family,
A family new and free,
Do not forget, with good intent
Speak quietly of me.

 

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Originally Composed: Tuesday August 20th 1996.
Date last modified: Wednesday March 26th 1997.