The Works of J. W. von Goethe/Volume 9/Sakontala

by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

For works with similar titles, see Sakuntala.

SAKONTALA.

Wouldst thou the blossoms of spring, as well as the fruits of the autumn,
Wouldst thou what charms and delights, wouldst thou what plenteously feeds,
"Wouldst thou include both heaven and earth in one designation,
All that is needed is done, when I Sakontala name.

Yesterday thy head was brown, as are the flowing locks of love;
In the bright blue sky I watched thee towering, giantlike above.
Now thy summit, white and hoary, glitters all with silver snow,
Which the stormy night hath shaken from its robes upon thy brow;
And I know that youth and age are bound with such mysterious meaning,
As the days are linked together, one short dream but intervening.