To Liuba who's leaving

Not the cricket but the cat
of the hearth
now he advises you, splendid
home of your scattered family.
The house which you take
wrapped up with you, cage or hat box?,
it hangs over those gloomy years as the light ark
rises over the deluge - and it suffices for your redemption.

(Eugenio Montale, Ossi di seppia)