Translation of Le Printemps by Charles D’Orléans By Shreya Ganesh Kumar
I have translated a modern version of this rondel by Charles D’Orléans and, through this, come to appreciate the innate beauty and delicacy present in the French language despite the rigidity of this poetic form. In creating the final translation, I have considered both the literal meaning of this poem alongside the diversity of the English language to try and convey th words of D’Orléans in a way that might retain their original beauty. Le temps a laissé son manteau. De vent, de froidure et de pluie, Et s’est vêtu de broderie, De soleil luisant, clair et beau.
The season has cast off his coat. Of wind, of cold and of rain, And has wrapped himself in embroidery, Of gleaming sun, brilliant and beautiful.
Il n’y a bête, ni oiseau Qu’en son jargon ne chante ou crie: Le temps a laissé son manteau.
There is neither animal, nor bird Which in its own tongue fails to sing or shout: The season has cast off his coat.
Rivière, fontaine et ruisseau Portent en livrée jolie, Gouttes d’argent d’orfèvrerie, Chacun s’habille de nouveau: Le temps a laissé son manteau.
River, fountain and stream Wear as pretty livery, Droplets of silver jewellery, Everyone gets dressed anew: The season has cast off his coat.
Image by Lauren Bacchus
