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

by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

For works with similar titles, see Separation.

SEPARATION.

I think of thee whene'er the sun is glowing
⁠⁠⁠Upon the lake;
Of thee, when in the crystal fountain flowing
⁠⁠⁠The moonbeams shake.

I see thee when the wanton wind is busy,
⁠⁠⁠And dust-clouds rise;
In the deep night, when o'er the bridge so dizzy
⁠⁠⁠The wanderer hies.

I hear thee when the waves, with hollow roaring,
⁠⁠⁠Gush forth their fill;
Often along the heath I go exploring,
⁠⁠⁠When all is still.

I am with thee! Though far thou art and darkling,
⁠⁠⁠Yet art thou near.
The sun goes down, the stars will soon be sparkling—
⁠⁠⁠Oh, wert thou here.