Mit einem gemahlten Band
With a Painted Ribbon

Goethe

Little leaves and flowers are being strewn
By gods of spring, so young and fair,
Playfully, delicately,
On a ribbon light as air.

Zephyr, take it on your wings,
Wind it about my dearest’s dress.
Then she’ll step up to her mirror,
There in all her sprightliness.

And with roses all about her,
She’ll look young as any rose.
Grant me just one glance, my dearest,
Reward enough, as Heaven knows!

Feel just what this heart is feeling,
Freely offer me your hand,
See the bond that binds us
More than a ribbon will withstand.