Translate into English is framed with grammatical instructions from a turn-of-the-century Spanish lesson book. Possessing a rare elegance and integrity, Cellini’s poems are intelligent and clever while capturing subtle emotions. From the compelling concept to the fine execution of these poetic vignettes—each work, each poem, every page is necessary to the whole. And the whole is a unique and beautiful experience.
Sus ojos están tristes.
“What is this?” he asks, for there is a place for everything in his mother’s kitchen. Even orphan items have a home together in the same drawer: bent nails, odd screws, hooks, hangers, a single marble, the key to the radiator valves. “A silver dollar,” she answers. It’s the first time he has seen a coin so heavy, so handsome. “Your grandfather gave it to me the day you were born,” and she kisses him on the forehead. “Put it back where you found it.”
His eyes are sad.