Drinking with the devil

[intro] [verse 1] In lonely drunkenness I drown each night, Voices whisper — shadows dance in light. Someone calls me by my patronymic name, I turn and gasp: the devil’s here! What game? He grins and winks, a spectre in the glow, I murmur: «Devil, stay — don’t go [Chorus 1] «I’m drunk on cognac, see how low I’ve sunk, You drink denatured — that’s your poisoned drink. Oh, devil‑brother, little fiend, my friend, Share this madness — let our spirits blend. Don’t be shy, devil — face the candle’s flame, Or I’ll cross myself — and break [Verse 2] The devil nods: «I know old Borisov, Your binge‑prone boss — a man of guile and love. He wolfs down bread, his cheeks stuffed to the brim, And swigs the cognac — never turns away, not him. When the bottle’s dry, we’ll find another source, Head to Three Stations — that’s our [Chorus 2] I grew so tired — the devil went alone, I woke — he’s back! A chill runs down my bone. Am I dreaming, lost in misty haze and fear, Or am I just a figment in his devilish stare? He swears anew, then leans in for a kiss, His tail a‑wagging — what a bizarre [Bridge] [Verse 3] I laugh till sides ache, mirth I can’t suppress, And ask: «So, devil, how’s it down in hell’s abyss? What’s their take on alcoholics, tell me true — Do they fry them in alcohol? Is that their view?» The devil curses, spits out with a sneer: «Down there, the wrong comrade’s running [Chorus 3] Then all fades out — the room grows bright and still, I’d give him hangover cure, if I had the skill. But he dissolves, like mist in whirling tide, I wait… When will he come? I can’t decide. I’m not mad, truly — just this I confess: It’s better with the devil than with… In lonely drunkenness I drown each night In lonely drunkenness I drown each night [Outro]