a woman's life and love

since i first saw him

i think myself blind. i look around me

and it's only him i see. his image floats before me

so gentle and so kind

he has got a clear mind and firm courage

oh

ring upon my finger

little golden ring

devoutly i press you to my lips and to my heart

sisters come adorn me

banish foolish fear

twine upon my furrowed brow the blossoming myrtle

i serve him and live for him

belong wholly to him

give myself and find myself transfigured by his brightness

ring upon my finger

little golden ring

devoutly i press you to my lips and to my heart

the blissful dream of childhood has ended

now i drink delicious death with you my love

now you have me caused me my first pain-

that really hurt. you sleep

you hard cruel man

the sleep of death

the veil falls

the bell tolls

the black shawls

the carriage rolls

you

my whole world.