sulfur and coal

poem by Ruth Salles

Based on the story The Origin of the Diamond by Elisabeth Klein.

Deep down in the earth, on the mountain,
said a clear sulfur crystal
to black coal:
“Oh, how ugly you are!
Look how beautiful and shiny I am!”

The coal replied: “You are right;
but I was already clear, a white wood
that has aged and darkened.
You are smooth and luminous. i have wrinkles
from working so hard, burning in the fire,
giving warmth to men.”

"Then," said the sulfur,
“You are a servant of men,
and I, no, I am sir.
Men respect me, for matches
it's me they make.
I provide you with the flame, the light.
Don't get too close. you will dirty
my beautiful color.”

At that moment, a great earthquake
shook the mountain, pressing
sulfur and coal.
What's left of them? In an instant,
the sulfur crumbled, turned
in a little yellow dust;
but in the place where the coal was,
a diamond sparkled.

***