Песня старого извозчика [Pesnya starogo izvozchika] [English translation]

When the vernal morning glances over Moscow bend,

And the clouds slowly start to glow with gold,

As in old days I am leaving with you, my old friend,

We are waiting for the rider as before.

Oh, I used to ride with you, we rushed full speed ahead,

Sparks were flying off the cobblestone-paved way!

But right now we plod along on asphalt road instead,

Both our heads have drooped and they no longer sway.

[Chorus:]

Well, my faithful longtime friend,

Whoa, old wretched nag tail end,

Hey, Maruska, step aside,

Our life's a long horse race,

You and I are old soulmates,

You're still faithful, true and tried.

In the past I used to fit you with the iron shoes,

Used to varnish your fine carriage with clear coat,

But the subway sparkled with oak railings in the news

And at once attracted every rider's vote.

And I cannot understand how these things came about,

All I used to know is mixed up and entwined:

Just to harness you I'm going on a morning route

From Sokolniki1 to Park1 on subway line.

[Chorus:]

Well, my faithful longtime friend,

Whoa, old wretched nag tail end,

Hey, Maruska, step aside,

Our life's a long horse race,

You and I are old soulmates,

You're still faithful, true and tried.

1. a. b. Moscow Metro subway stations

• Artist:Leonid Utesov