from "Das Lied von der Erde"

[greekodysseus]

Blue autumn mists undulate over the lake;
the grass is standing stiff with frost;
One might think an artist had strewn jade dust
over all the fine blossoms.
The sweet fragrance of flowers has flown away;
a cold wind forces them to bow their stems low.
Soon the wilted golden leaves
of lotus flowers will drift upon the water.
My heart is weary. My small lamp
has gone out with a splutter;
it reminds me of sleep.
I am coming to you, comfort place of rest!
Yes, give me rest - I have need of rejuvenation.
I weep much in my solitude.
The autumn in my heart has lasted too long.
Sun of love, will you never shine again,
gently to dry my bitter tears?