I'm looking in vain for the reason

I'm looking in vain for the reason

That I am so sad and distressed;

A tale known for many a season

Will not allow me to rest.

Cool is the air in the twilight

And quietly flows the Rhine;

The mountain top glows with a highlight

From the evening sun's last shine.

The fairest of maiden's reposing

So wonderously up there.

Her golden treasure disclosing;

She's combing her golden hair.

She combs it with comb of gold

And meanwhile sings a song

With melody strangely bold

And overpoweringly strong.

The boatman in his small craft

Is seized with longings, and sighs.

He sees not the rocks fore and aft;

He looks only up towards the skies.

I fear that the waves shall be flinging

Both vessel and man to their end;

That must have been what with her singing

The Lorelei did intend.