Page:The Soul of a Century.djvu/109



When in parting we embrace I cannot refrain from tears; Even yonder branch will shudder When its song-bird disappears. When my life begins to fade, Do not ask the reason why; Even well-waters turn cloudy When a stone drops from on high. Know you why my yearning song Still is lingering on my breath? E’en a nightingale sings freely Just before it meets its death.

I would like to know I would like to know How has warm Spring arrived? On the wings of birds did it fly down? Was it bom in the dew-drops pearly gown? Or was it from my soul derived?

I would like to know I would like to know What Springtime means to love. Why to embrace and kiss and dream We are driven by flowers and a moonlight beam ’Neath the peaceful stars above?

I would like to know I would like to know What in my soul found rest. Is it love’s burning flame divine Or bits of flickering songs that shine, Or a passing dream at best

Herein again you see our fateful lot, Eternal weeping and eternal groans! They knock their heads against the temple walls And yet, in truth, for this they should be blessed, For their despondent grief is but a sign, A living witness that we are alive.