- Original Translation
Nearness of the Beloved by Johann Wolfgang Goethe

I think of you, when the shimmering sea waves
Shine bright on me;
I think of you, when the moon's resplendent rays
Light up each stream.
I see you, when from out the distant path
Dust is rising;
When in the depths of night, I see a stranger
Bare, shivering.
I hear you, when the tranquil seas glisten
With rising tides.
In the quiet grove, I often go to listen,
Then peace abides.
I am with you, despite how distant, however far -
I know you're near.
The sun will set, and soon I'll behold each star—
If only you were here.
Translation © David B. Gosselin