היו לילות [Hayu Leilot] [English translation]

I do recall, those nights I still remember…

Forever will I hold those memories rife,

Between the paths from Degania to Kinneret

I parked the heavy cart that was my life.

Then he approached: “My little one, believe me:

I’ve built a house for you in which to thrive.

At evening time, a nightgown you will weave me

And through the day, your laden cart I’ll drive.”

He was young then and fair, and as tall as a griffin,

He would drive all the carts through the field, wide with loam.

As for me, I would sit and his gown I’d embroider,

The color of sky with a flower of gold.

I do recall, those nights I still remember…

He planted trees to span the end of time,

Along the paths from Degania to Kinneret

And none but me to tend them, he’d abide.

When he would go, he’d come back in a spasm,

My visage on his heart would make him yearn.

So tell me please, can one amongst you fathom,

To where he left and never to return.

I would cry bitter tears, I was shocked and astonished,

Distant fields I have searched; now my arms just unfold

That old nightgown I wove and with love did embroider,

The color of sky with a flower of gold.

I do recall, those nights I still remember…

Forever, yes, the memories I will hold.

• Artist:Esther Ofarim