Hagia Sophia

1.

Nothing is necessary;    everything matters.

2.

Human is to know    that the world within

will be richer    than the world without.

3.

Seeking the peace    of the piece is work;

vainglory seeks    its reputation.

4.

Oh, beloved!    May our future

be as that staff    which slips the grasp

of the willing mage    and falls to the floor

a serpent on the rug:    such your magic!

5.

How long we’ve chased    the joy of our friends;

now is to make    the friends of our joy.

6.

I know that nothing    is everlasting

(even our praises    shall be swallowed)

but must we fear    the end of days?

7.

A dragon’s lot    is to lie in its den

and nurture the hoard    (as we our promises).