Josef Freiherr von Eichendorff: “Forest Talk”
Excerpt, “Gems of German Lyrics: Consisting of Selections from Ruckert, Lenau, Chamisso, Freiligrath and Others.” Translated into English Verse by Henry D. Wireman. 1869.
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FOREST TALK
It is so late, it cold hath grown,
Why through the woods dost ride alone
So late at night, on such a ride.
I’ll lead thee home, my pretty bride!
.
“Men’s artful ways are many, pain
My heart hath broken, torn in twain;
The forest horn sounds far and near,
Away! Thou’lt know me but to fear.”
.
The steed is decked so wondrous fine,
The rider looks so fair, divine;
Protect me, God! I know thee now,
The witch, Oh, Lorelei art thou!
.
“I am, on cliffs my castle stands,
A view of ‘Father Rhine’ commands.
It is so late, it cold doth grow,
From hence thou nevermore wilt go!”
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