Ievan polkka [English translation]

From the neighbour's the polka rhythm was calling

The bottoms of my feet were tingling

Eva's mother was guarding her daughter,

But Eva managed to fool her

For no forbiddance will stand in our way,

When we dance all around

((see comment))

Eva's mouth was smiling widly,

As people were congratulating her

Everyone's head was wet from sweat

And the violin whined and wailed

This lad isn't bothered by the wetness,

As he whirls all around

Eva's mother was in her chambers,

muttering a psalm to herself

As this lad was at the neighbour's

Nailing the old hag's daughter

For this lad isn't bothered by old hags

As he whirls all around

There was fun after the music

I made it flame up once

As we went home this hag had a row

And Eva started sobbing

I said to Eva, don't mind it,

We'll still whirl all around

To the mother I said, so she would shut up,

I can't guarantee your health

You'll get to keep it by holding your tongue

And go away to sulk by yourself

This lad doesn't care for being gentle,

When old hags drudge all around

I'll say this, that you'll have to work

For you can't get me so easily

You may go from west to east,

Still I won't let go of Eva

For this lad doesn't care for modesty,

As he dances all around