Translation:The Black Heralds (1918)/Christmas Eve

by César Vallejo

At the hushing of the orchestra, veiled
feminine shadows pass below the branches,
through whose falling leaves are filtered icy
chimeras of moonlight, pale cloudscapes.

There are lips crying forgotten arias,
ivory garments feigning great lilies.
Chatter and smiles in wild crowds
perfume with silk the rough thickets.

I hope the light of your return laughs;
and in the epiphany of your slender shape,
the festivity will sing in gold major.

My verses will then bleat in your land,
softly singing with all the mystical bells
that the Baby-Jesus of your love has been born.