татуировка [Tatuirovka] [English translation]

We have not divided you and not been affectionate,

And what we loved - that is left behind.

I carry in my soul your gleaming image, Valya,

And Lyosha had your image pricked on his chest.

And on that day we said farewelll at the station,

I promised you to remember you till the grave, -

I said: I shall never in my life forget Valya!

- And I especially, - Lyosha answered me.

And now decide, who of us is worse,

And for whom it is more difficult - just try to tear up old wounds:

He has your profile pricked outside,

And I have - my soul pricked inside.

And when I already feel wretched, as on the scaffold, -

May my words not insult you, -

I beg, that Lyosha undo his shirt,

And I look, look for hours at you.

But recently my comrade, a good friend,

Has defeated my misfortune, -

He copied you from Lyosha's chest

And pricked your profile on my chest.

I know, to slander one's friends is embarrassing,

But you are close to me and naturally because,

That my, most probably - your tattooing

Is much better and more beautiful than his.

• Artist:Vladimir Vysotsky