English poem
Mephistopheles
by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832)
'Tis thine our course to steer. The little world, and then the great we'll view. With what delight, what profit too, Thou'lt revel through thy gay career!
FAUST Despite my length of beard I need The easy manners that insure success; Th' attempt I fear can ne'er succeed; To mingle in the world I want address; I still have an embarrass'd air, and then I feel myself so small with other men.
MEPHISTOPHELES Time, my good friend, will all that's needful give; Be only self-possessed, and thou hast learn'd to live.