Lenau: “Wish”

Excerpt, “Gems of German Lyrics:  Consisting of Selections from Ruckert, Lenau, Chamisso, Freiligrath and Others.”  Translated into English Verse by Henry D. Wireman.  1869..

.

WISH

Fain would I travel

Far over the sea,

Thou, my beloved,

With thee alone!

.

Intruders and list’ners,

And cold disturbers,

Would keep far distant

The surging abyss,

The threatening sea.

 .

So safe we should be

And happy alone.

Were storms to come

I’d clasp thee firmly

And close to my breast.

 .

Were billows to thunder

Behold!—Now tires

The roaring commotion,

The waves and the winds are

Falling to slumber,

And over the waters

Tranqulity reigns.

 .

Thou restest thoughtful

Upon my breast.

So deep the stillness,

My listening heart

Hears answer throbbing

Thy listening heart.

.

Though we are alone,

The thoughtful Ocean

Not to disturb, thou

Dost whisper gently,

And softly quiver

Only thy lips,–

The undulating

Leaves of the rose;

I drink in thy words,

The ringing fragrance

Of the lovely rose.

.