Lermontov is one of my favorite poets. According to some, he wrote this poem when he found out about his banishment South. They say that he stepped to a window and stared outside. When he turned around he told his friends the poem. It's simple and beautiful. I include my own translation since I did not like other variations. To me they did not reflect the actual meaning.
Heavenly clouds, eternal wanderers
Through azure steppe, like a string of pearls
You move like I’m - exiles,
From dear North, away due South.
What drives you, a life’s decision?
A hidden envy or an open spite?
Are you burdened by a crime?
Or your "friend’s" poisonous lies?
No, you are tired of the barren fields...
You are indifferent to passion and suffering,
Always cold and always free,
You have no home, you know not banishment.