Mr. Wilbur, I am exceedingly grateful for your comments. Knowing that you'd be looking at my little translation had me nervous all week, but finding you had some nice things to say about it will make me proud for the rest of my life.
Your exquisite translation of Guillen's "Unos Caballos" had a lot to do with energizing my translation efforts lately, and seeing the wonderful production of your "Tartuffe" in New York had a similar effect. (You were very well served by the actors, by the way).
This morning I read that Milosz was once asked, "What do you think poetry is?" And he responded, "Look, the only thing I can tell you is that poetry has helped me to live." This rang true for me, so let me distill all the praise I'm tempted to heap upon you to just one statement: Your poetry has helped me to live. Thank you so much.
Tim and Alan, it was characteristically generous of you to share your time with the Wilburs and to give Erato the honor of so distinguished a Lariat. I hope you enjoy the rest of your vacation!
PS--
I've posted a "final" version of this translation on the Translation board.
[This message has been edited by Roger Slater (edited February 19, 2003).]
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