Little heart in the tower,
Striking clock,
Do you show a changing track
In the storm?
That which the distant
Sun has brought us,
Is shown by the stars
Of the dark night;
Borne in a heavenly manner
The new year comes to us,
It has struck twelve,
Plainly and clearly.
 
Blithe sisters,
Sing rejoicingly:
"It was only just yesterday,
It is only just today!"
When the old now turns
Renewingly back,
May good fortune and fate
Have free reign;
Glorious brethren,
Do not leave off,
The plumage of time
Swishes when one is drinking wine.
 
Falteringly begins
That which renews itself,
He who reflects
Is not delighted.
Childishly still creeping
Babbles the year,
Look, our hair still flies
Childishly about us;
Do not seek wreaths,
Seek the glass,
Here upon the threshold
Do not bite the dust.
 
Always in darkness
The year comes,
The sparkle of wine
Makes it clear;
Drop after drop
Time ripened,
Seeking and hoping
Led us far.
In all our veins
Strength fills us,
It feels how the blossom
Creates worlds for itself.