Franz Schubert — Die Winterreise D.911: 1. Gute Nacht Good Night” English translation

I arrived a stranger A stranger I depart May blessed me With many a bouquet of flowers The girl spoke of love Her mother even of marriage; Now the world is so desolate The path concealed beneath snow I cannot choose the time For my journey; I must find my own way In this darkness A shadow thrown by the moon Is my companion; And on the white meadows I seek the tracks of deer Why should I tarry longer And be driven out? Let stray dogs howl Before their master’s house Love delights in wandering – God made it so – From one to another Beloved, good night! I will not disturb you as you dream It would be a shame to spoil your rest You shall not hear my footsteps; Softly, softly the door is closed As I pass I write ‘Good night’ on your gate So that you might see That I thought of you