German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born on this day in 1749. In honor of his legacy, here is a poem in which Goethe celebrates another poet. While reading it, think not only of the Greek poet, Anacreon, but also of the “living beauty” that Goethe left behind for us. Anacreon’s Grave Here where roses bloom, where laurel and vine both mingle, Where the turtledove coos, where the cricket sings in delight, What grave is this that the gods have adorned and planted, With living beauty? It’s where Anacreon rests. The happy poet enjoyed spring, summer and autumn: And this mound, at last, from winter is sheltering him. Read more of Goethe’s poetry here.

German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born on this day in 1749. In honor of his legacy, here is a poem in which Goethe celebrates another poet. While reading it, think not only of the Greek poet, Anacreon, but also of the “living beauty” that Goethe left behind for us.

Anacreon’s Grave

Here where roses bloom, where laurel and vine both mingle,

Where the turtledove coos, where the cricket sings in delight,

What grave is this that the gods have adorned and planted,

With living beauty? It’s where Anacreon rests.

The happy poet enjoyed spring, summer and autumn:

And this mound, at last, from winter is sheltering him.

Read more of Goethe’s poetry here.

Posted 8 months ago
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Tagged: Goethe, Anacreon, poetry, .
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