it is dochs oars, sûnt 2001

You phone to remind me
I said the Nobel
ought to be refused, because
it’s not always awarded to the best.
Forgive me. I’m accepting out of fear.
A conspicious reward doesn’t offend,
rather it’s a defense against the threat
of devaluation. Don’t expect
acts of courage from an old man.
Recognition always arrives
late, when even a hoped-for
honor seems useless.
The time of events
is different from ours.

Eugenio Montale

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