For works with similar titles, see My Son.
Songs of a Cowherd
by Itō Sachio, translated by Shio Sakanishi
4621342Songs of a CowherdShio SakanishiItō Sachio

My Son

(Kyuichiro, who died after thirteen days of life)

Fearful
I drew myself close to thee
And listened;
But there was no more breath.

Thy tender soul,
More frail than a flickering light,
Touched lightly the mortal world
To be forever put out.