The pleasure of a stormy night

Joseph Netzer

When, outside, over mountain and valley

rain pours and storms rage,

name-plate and window rattle clearly,

and in the night the traveller goes astray,

it is so sweet to rest here inside,

surrendering to blissful love;

all of Heaven's golden glow

flees to this quiet room:

Rich life, have mercy!

Hold me fast in your gentle arms!

Spring flowers thrust upward,

clouds float by and birds sing.

Never end, you stormy, wild night!

Rattle, you window; shake, you name-plate;

Rear up, forests; roar, o wave:

Heaven's brightness holds me fast!