English poem
Ariel
by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832)
If nature boon, or subtle sprite, Endow your soul with pinions;-- Then follow to yon rosy height, Through ether's calm dominions!
ORCHESTRA (pianissimo)
Drifting cloud and misty wreathes Are fill'd with light elysian; O'er reed and leaf the zephyr breathes-- So fades the fairy vision!