Instinct

Instinct

My body is a mystery.
As long as this brittle thing is alive
you will feel its power.
I will save the world.
That is why Eros’ blood is coursing through my lips
and Eros’ gold runs through my tired curls.
I need only to look,
weary or in pain: the earth is mine.
When I lie exhausted on my bed
I know: in this weakened hand lies the fate of the earth.
It is power that trembles in my shoe,
it is power that moves in the folds of my dress,
and it is power, fearing no abyss, that stands before you.

- Edith Sodergran
1892 – 1923
Swedish speaking Finnish poet