Is there a rustling in the leaves?
Does the grape turn red?
Is autumn already arriving?
Alas, how oppressed
I used to feel at its arrival,
And how the tears flowed!

Should one now drunkenly,
Quickly, squander
All pleasures in one day?
Then the leaves fall,
And the nightingales
Rest from their song!

Now with other concerns,
Every morning I peer out;
Asking, autumn, is this you already?
When the leaves fall
Then he shall come, who of all people
Is the dearest to me!

Let me fill your tender forms 
With tears,
Ye flowers, sink into the dust!
Embers of my dreams,
Do they not colour,
Ye trees, your dark leaves?

Coral berries,
Do you wish to suck my heart's blood,
Which must colour you red?
Grapes, grow round
And become heaven-inspired
By the maiden's kiss!

Autumn, come quickly,
Colourfully to spread your net,
I shall jubilantly help you.
Rob then whatever you wish,
As long as you bring my bird
To me in captivity!