Classic Poem

Song of a German Poet

I sang in days of leisure
Full many a joyful lay,
Of old and homely sayings,
Of love and wine and May.
Of these my songs are ended —
Mere toys, at leisure planned —
The shield of war is ringing
We shout for " Fatherland " .

'Tis told us of the Catti: —
A ring each warrior wore
Which, till he slew a foeman,
As badge of shame he bore.
So must I chain my spirit,
Fix on my lips a lock
Till well I've served my country
Amid the battle's shock.

And though I was not nourished
For lofty hero-hood,
And though my song be suited
To please a thoughtless mood;

Yet in this holy warfare
My proudest boast would be
The noble right, to herald
My country's Victory!EnglishLudwig Uhland