Got it - thanks Allan. The "translate" facility (courtesy of Babelfish) gives an idea of what the song's about. So it turns out Anka's version isn't actually a translation, but rather itb is a total rewrite with a completely different plot, and a much less interesting situation.

So instead of being a song about a pompous selfcentred and self-satisfied arrogant monster, the original turns out to be about a poor wretch devoted to a lover who is totally indifferent. A much much better song. Maybe someone should try translating it.

But it wouldn't go down so well at funerals I suppose.