Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Tame Xenia

GOD gave to mortals birth, In his own image too; Then came Himself to earth, A mortal kind and true. ----- BARBARIANS oft endeavour Gods for themselves to make But they're more hideous ever Than dragon or than snake. ----- WHAT shall I teach thee, the very first thing? -- Fain would I learn o'er my shadow to spring! ----- "WHAT is science, rightly known? 'Tis the strength of life alone. Life canst thou engender never, Life must be life's parent ever. ----- It matters not, I ween, Where worms our friends consume, Beneath the turf so green, Or 'neath a marble tomb. Remember, ye who live, Though frowns the fleeting day, That to your friends ye give What never will decay.