The clock strikes again - only a quarter past twelve!

The clock strikes again - only a quarter past twelve!

Only a quarter of an hour, so help me God,

has passed since I began to move!

I dreamed that many a day had passed!

But I am free, my woes have made a turn.

He who sends His rays through the universe,

He also resolves time and space in this chamber -

I am alone, and still I'm not alone!

Severed am I from my cruel ordeal

and like a sea that I want to leave behind

I let my boiling blood flow,

standing on the shore as a brave man.

Whirl as you may, you faithless waves,

long enough have I followed your ways!

I sing louder than you, like a ferryman on the shore,

and trade you in for a good homeland.

I already see the shimmering flow of mingled times

dissolve in unlimited space,

meadows, mountain tops, floating clouds:

Eternity in one deep breath!

The last breath a whirling sea of life

With thoughts escaping from my head!

Farewell now, oh self, vain idol,

Whoever you may be, farewell, farewell!