Abschied [English translation]

O valleys wide, o heights,

o beautiful, green forest,

you, of my joy and birth pangs

the dwelling!

Out there, always betrayed,

rushes the wild world:

encircle me now with your bow,

you green vault.

As it stands written in the forest

a quiet, earnest word

of doing right and love,

and mankind's treasure.

I have faithfully read

the words simple and true.

And through my whole being

they surge, inexpressibly clear.

Soon I will leave you,

and go into exile,

on moving, colorful lanes

life's drama to see.

And in the midst of life

shall your elemental power

lift me from my loneliness;

so shall my heart not be old.