Promise

Text by Heinrich Heine (1797-1856)

Translated into English by Joseph Massaad 

deutsch - français


German liberty, you no longer should
Trot trough the swamps, barefoot;
You will finally have socks, one day
And also boots, I dare say!

You should wear over your head
A nice and warm woolly hat,
That will protect your ears,
During the days of winter’s freeze.

You will even eat, one day
A great future is on its way!
Only, avoid  any excessive desire,
Tempted by the roman satyr!

Avoid becoming ever so bold!
Do not throw respect over board
When you deal high authority,
With the gentleman from the mayoralty!