The monk
Giacomo Meyerbeer
Pious symbol where my delirious heart
beats impure.
Oh Christ, banish the demon who inspires me.
His accursed arm pierces these dark walls.
Thoughts of love, intoxicating images,
cease to devour my senses.
This young brow, aged by storms,
droops withered as with declining years.
Mary, Holy Mother,
pray, pray for your mad child.
Turn away the anger
of the offended Lord.
Cursed be the day when that impious voice
pronounced the terrible oath!
It lied! The world is my life -
folly and love are my element.
Mercy, my God! under this solitary roof,
broken, I submit to the burden of my irons.
Give your slave back to the brightness of earth.
Under the sackcloth a heart is in hell.
Mary, Holy Mother,
pray, pray for your mad child.
Turn away the anger
of the offended Lord.
Behind me, pitiless chain!
Give me life and liberty!
Let the world drag me along in its torrent,
cups of sensuality intoxicate me!
Women, demons, cast your spells on me.
My drunken heart bounds at your frolickings.
Give me songs in crazy orgies,
cries of love, songs - I am damned!
Mary, Holy Mother,
pray, pray for your mad child.
Turn away the anger
of the offended Lord.