Second epilogue for variations: “The Lost Detectives” (Roberto Bolaño)

As with "Godzilla in Mexico," wording and phrase substitutions ("Teen Theater" vs. "Theater of Youth") and punctuation in a poem can hint at a subtle change of meaning, a subtle creation of feeling ...

The Lost Detectives -Translation by Laura Healy Detectives lost in the dark city. I heard their moans. I heard their footsteps in the Teen Theater. A voice coming on like an arrow. Shadows of cafes and parks, Adolescent hangouts. Detectives who stare at Their open palms, Destiny stained by their own blood. And you can’t even recall Where the wound was, The faces you once loved, The woman who saved your life.

The Lost Detectives  -Translation by Guillermo Parra The lost detectives in the dark city I heard their moans I heard their steps in the Theater of Youth A voice advancing like an arrow Shadow of cafés and parks Frequented during adolescence The detectives who observe Their open hands Destiny stained with its own blood And you can’t even remember Where you were injured The faces you once loved The woman who saved your life