Classic Poem

Der Traumgott bracht' mich in ein Riesenschloss

The Dream-God led me to a castle grim
Full of strange lights, strange scents and stranger glamor;
And through great labyrinths there seemed to swim
Wild multitudes whom nothing could enamor.
Onward they swept, through halls and portals dim,
Wringing pale hands with an incessant clamor.
Maidens and knights I saw among the throng
And, with the torrent, I was borne along.

When suddenly I was alone — and lo,
I could not find a single face whatever.
Through frowning aisles and winding rooms I go;
Fiercely impelled by one intense endeavor.
But oh, my feet are lead, my footsteps slow . . .
To find the gate, and leave this place forever!
At last, I gain the portals with a prayer,
Fling wide the door and leap . . . Oh God, who's there!

My love! Beside that door I saw her stand,
Pain on her lips and Sorrow's crown above her.
Backward she turned me with a waving hand,
Threatening or warning, I could not discover . . .
Yet, from her eyes, sprang, like a sweet command,
A fire that made me once again her lover.
Tender and strong, her very glances spoke
The flaming speech of Love — and I awoke.