Johann Wolfgang von Goethe And they await our festivity. (40) They're seated already, eyebrows raised, Faust, Part 1 Calmly hoping they'll be amazed. Reading 1 of 3 I know how to make the people happy: But I've never been so embarrassed: not Translated from the German by A.S. Kline That they've been used to the best, you see, (45) ©2003 All Rights Reserved Yet they've all read such a dreadful lot. Dedication How can we make it all seem fresh and new, Weighty, but entertaining too? Again you show yourselves, you wavering Forms, I'd love to see a joyful crowd, that's certain, Revealed, as you once were, to clouded vision. When the waves drive them to our place, (50) Shall I attempt to hold you fast once more? And with tremendous and repeated surging, Heart's willing still to suffer that illusion? Squeeze them through the narrow gate of grace: You crowd so near! Well then, you shall endure, (5) In the light of day they're there already, And rouse me, from your mist and cloud's confusion: Pushing, till they've reached the window, My spirit feels so young again: it's shaken As if they're at the baker's, starving, nearly (55) By magic breezes that your breathings waken. Breaking their necks: just for a ticket. Oh! You bring with you the sight of joyful days, Only poets can work this miracle on men And many a loved shade [ghost] rises to the eye: (10) So various: the day is yours, my friend! And like some other half‐forgotten phrase, Dramatist First Love returns, and Friendship too is nigh: O, don't speak to me of that varied crew, Pain is renewed, and sorrow: all the ways, The sight of whom makes inspiration fade. (60) Life wanders in its labyrinthine flight, Veil, from me, the surging multitude, Naming the good, those that Fate has robbed (15) Whose whirling will drives us everyway. Of lovely hours, those slipped from me and lost. No, some heavenly silence lead me to, They can no longer hear this latest song, Where for the poet alone pure joy's at play: Spirits, to whom I gave my early singing: Where Love and Friendship too That kindly crowd itself is now long gone, grace our hearts, (65) Alas, it dies away, that first loud ringing! (20) Created and inspired by heavenly arts. I bring my verses to the unknown throng, Ah! What springs here from our deepest being, My heart's made anxious even by their clapping, What the shy trembling lips in speaking meant, And those besides delighted by my verse, Now falling awry, and now perhaps succeeding, If they still live, are scattered through the Earth. Is swallowed in the fierce Moment's violence. (70) I feel a long and unresolved desire (25) Often, when the first years are done, unseeing, For that serene and solemn land of ghosts: It appears at last, complete, in deepest sense. It quivers now, like an Aeolian lyre [wind harp], What dazzles is a Momentary act: My stuttering verse, with its uncertain notes, What's true is left for posterity, intact. A shudder takes me: tear on tear, entire, Comedian The firm heart feels weakened and remote: (30) Don't speak about posterity to me! (75) What I possess seems far away from me, If I went on about posterity, And what is gone becomes reality. Where would you get your worldly fun? Prelude On Stage Folk want it, and they'll still have some.

(Director, Dramatist, Comedian) The presence of a fine young man Is nice, I think, for everyone. (80) Director Who, comfortably, shares his wit, You two, who've often stood by me, And to their moods takes no exception: In times of need, when trouble's breaking, He'll make himself a greater hit, Say what success our undertaking (35) And win a more secure reception. Will meet with, then, in Germany? Be brave, and show them what you've got, (85) I'd rather like the crowd to enjoy it, Have Fantasy with all her chorus, yes, Since they live and let live, truly. Mind, Reason, Passion, Tears, the lot, The stage is set, the boards complete, But don't you leave out Foolishness. 1

Director The right of humanity, that Nature gave, Make sure, above all, plenty's happening there! Carelessly, so that you might gain! They come to look, and then they want to stare. (90) How will he move all hearts again? Spin endlessly before their faces, How will each element be his slave? So the people gape amazed, Is that harmony nothing, You've won them by your many paces, from his breast unfurled, (140) You'll be the man most praised. That draws back into his own heart, the world? The mass are only moved by things en masse, (95) When Nature winds the lengthened filaments, Each one, himself, will choose the bit he needs: Indifferently, on her eternal spindle, Who brings a lot, brings something that will pass: When all the tuneless mass of elements, And everyone goes home contentedly. In their sullen discord, jar and jangle—(145) You'll give a piece, why then give it them in pieces! Who parts the ever‐flowing ranks of creation, With such a stew you're destined for success. (100) Stirs them, so rhythmic measure is assured? Easy to serve, it's as easy to invent. Who calls the One to general ordination, What use to bring them your complete intent? Where it may ring in marvellous accord? The Public will soon pick at what you've dressed. Who lets the storm wind rage with passion, (150) The sunset glow the senses move? Dramatist Who scatters every lovely springtime blossom You don't see how badly such work will do! Beneath the footsteps of the one we love? How little it suits the genuine creator! (105) Who weaves the slight green wreath of leaves, Already, I see, it's a principle with you. To honour work well done in every art? (155) The finest master is a sloppy worker. What makes Olympus sure, joins deities? Director The power of Man, revealed by the bard.

Such a reproach leaves me unmoved: Comedian The man who seeks to be approved, So use it then, all this fine energy, Must stick to the best tools for it, (110) And drive along the work of poetry, Think, soft wood's the best to split, To show how we are driven in Love's play. (160) And have a look for whom you write! By chance we meet, we feel, we stay, See, this is one that boredom drives, And bit by bit we're tightly bound: Another's from some overloaded table, Happiness grows, and then it's fenced around: Or, worst of all, he's one arrives, (115) We're all inflamed then comes the sorrowing: Like most, fresh from the daily paper. Before you know it, there's a novel brewing! (165) They rush here mindlessly, as to a Masque, Why don't we give such a piece! And curiosity inspires their hurry: Grasp the life of man complete! The ladies bring themselves, and in their best, Everyone lives, though it's seldom confessed, Come and play their parts and ask no fee. (120) And wherever you grasp, there's interest. What dream of yours is this, exalted verse? In varied pictures there's little light, (170) Doesn't a full house make you happy? A lot of error, and a gleam of right, Have a good look at your patrons first! So the best of drinks is brewed, One half are coarse, the rest are chilly. So the world's cheered and renewed. After the show he hopes for card‐play: (125) Then see the flower of lovely youth collect, He hopes for a wild night, and a woman's kiss. To hear your words, and view the offering, (175) Why then do so many poor fools plague, And every tender nature will extract The sweet Muse, for such a goal as this? A melancholy food from what you bring, I tell you, just give them more and more, They'll gain now this and that from your art, So you'll never stray far from the mark, (130) So each sees what is present in their heart. Just seek to confuse them, in the dark: They're readily moved to weeping or to laughter, (180) To keep them happy, that's hard—for sure. They'll admire your verve, and enjoy the show: And now what's wrong? Delight or Pain? What's finished you can never alter after: Dramatist Minds still in growth will be grateful, though.

Go, look for another scribbler by night! Dramatist Shall the poet throw away the highest right, (135) So give me back that time again, 2

When I was still 'becoming', (185) Use heavenly lights, the big and small, (235) When words gushed like a fountain Squander stars in any number, In new, and endless flowing, Rocky cliffs, and fire, and water, Then for me mists veiled the world, Birds and creatures, use them all. In every bud the wonder glowed, So in our narrow playhouse waken A thousand flowers I unfurled, (190) The whole wide circle of creation, (240) That every valley, richly, showed. And stride, deliberately, as well, I had nothing, yet enough: From Heaven, through the world, to Hell. Joy in illusion, thirst for truth. Give every passion, free to move, The deepest bliss, filled with pain, (195) The force of hate, the power of love, Oh, give me back my youth again!

Comedian Youth is what you need, dear friend, When enemies jostle you, of course, And girls, filled with desire, bend (200) Their arms around your neck, with force, When the swift‐run race's garland Beckons from the hard‐won goal, Prologue In Heaven When from the swirling dance, a man Drinks until the night is old. (205) (God, the Heavenly Hosts, and then Mephistopheles.)

But to play that well‐known lyre (The Three Archangels step forward.) With courage and with grace, Moved by self‐imposed desire, Raphael At a sweet wandering pace, The Sun sings out, in ancient mode, That is your function, Age, (210) His note among his brother‐spheres, And our respect won't lessen. And ends his pre‐determined road, (245) Age doesn't make us childish, as they say, With peals of thunder for our ears. It finds that we're still children. The sight of him gives Angels power, Though none can understand the way: Director The inconceivable work is ours, That's enough words for the moment, As bright as on the primal day. (250) Now let me see some action! (215) While you're handing out the compliments, Gabriel You should also make things happen. And swift, and swift, beyond conceiving, Why talk so much of inspiration? The splendour of the Earth turns round, Delay won't make it flow, you see. A Paradisial light is interleaving, Since Poetry gave the gift of creation, (220) With night's awesome profound. Take your orders then from Poetry. The ocean breaks with shining foam, (255) You know what's wanted here, Against the rocky cliffs deep base, We need strong ale to appear: And rock and ocean whirl and go, In the spheres' swift eternal race. So brew me a barrel right away! Tomorrow won't do what's undone today, (225) Michael We shouldn't waste a minute, so And storms are roaring in their race Decide what's possible, and just From sea to land, and land to sea, (260) Grasp it firmly like a hoe, Their raging forms a fierce embrace, Make sure that you let nothing go, All round, of deepest energy. And work it about, because you must. (230) The lightning's devastations blaze On the German stage, you see, Along the thunder‐crashes' way: Everyone tries out what he can: Yet, Lord, your messengers, shall praise (265) Don't fail to show me, I'm your man, The gentle passage of your day.

Your trap‐doors, and your scenery. All Three 3

The sight of it gives Angels power God Though none can understand the way, Though he's still confused at how to serve me, And all your noble work is ours, I'll soon lead him to a clearer dawning, As bright as on the primal day. (270) In the green sapling, can't the gardener see (310) The flowers and fruit the coming years will bring. Mephistopheles Since, O Lord, you near me once again, Mephistopheles To ask how all below is doing now, What do you wager? I might win him yet! And usually receive me without pain, If you give me your permission first, You see me too among the vile crowd. I'll lead him gently on the road I set.

Forgive me: I can't speak in noble style, (275) God And since I'm still reviled by this whole crew, As long as he's alive on Earth, (315) My pathos would be sure to make you smile, So long as that I won't forbid it, If you had not renounced all laughter too. For while man strives he errs. You'll get no word of suns and worlds from me. How men torment themselves is all I see. (280) Mephistopheles The little god of Earth sticks to the same old way, My thanks: I've never willingly seen fit And is as strange as on that very first day. To spend my time amongst the dead, He might appreciate life a little more: he might, I much prefer fresh cheeks instead. (320) If you hadn't lent him a gleam of Heavenly light: To corpses, I close up my house: Or it's too like a cat with a mouse. He calls it Reason, but only uses it (285) To be more a beast than any beast as yet. God He seems to me, saving Your Grace, Well and good, you've said what's needed! Like a long‐legged grasshopper: through space Divert this spirit from his source, He's always flying: he flies and then he springs, You know how to trap him, lead him, And in the grass the same old song he sings. (290) On your downward course, (325) If he'd just lie there in the grass it wouldn't hurt! And when you must, then stand, amazed: But he buries his nose in every piece of dirt. A good man, in his darkest yearning,

Is still aware of virtue's ways. God Have you nothing else to name? Mephistopheles Do you always come here to complain? That's fine! There's hardly any waiting. (330) Does nothing ever go right on the Earth? (295) My wager's more than safe I'm thinking.

Mephistopheles When I achieve my goal, in winning, No, Lord! I find, as always, it couldn't be worse. You'll let me triumph with a swelling heart. I'm so involved with Man's wretched ways, He'll eat the dust, and with an art, Like the snake my mother, known for sinning. (335) I've even stopped plaguing them, myself, these days.

God God Do you know, Faust? You can appear freely too: Those like you I've never hated. Mephistopheles Of all the spirits who deny, it's you, The Doctor? The jester, who's most lightly weighted. God Man's energies all too soon seek the level, (340) My servant, first! He quickly desires unbroken slumber,

Mephistopheles So I gave him you to join the number, In truth! He serves you in a peculiar manner. (300) To move, and work, and play the devil. There's no earthly food or drink at that fool's dinner. But you the genuine sons of light, He drives his spirit outwards, far, Enjoy the living beauty bright! (345) Half‐conscious of its maddened dart: Becoming, that works and lives forever, From Heaven demands the brightest star, Embrace you in love's limits dear, And from the Earth, Joy's highest art, (305) And all that may as Appearance waver, Fix firmly with everlasting Idea! And all the near and all the far, Fails to release his throbbing heart. (Heaven closes, and the Archangels separate.)

4

Mephistopheles Float with spirits in mountain caves, (alone) Swim the meadows in twilight' waves, (395) I like to hear the Old Man's words, Free from the smoke of knowledge too, from time to time, (350) Bathe in your health‐giving dew! And take care, when I'm with him, not to spew. Alas! In this prison must I stick? It's very nice when such a great Gentleman, This hollow darkened hole of brick, Chats with the devil, in ways so human, too! Where even the lovely heavenly light (400)

Scene 1: Night Shines through stained glass, dull not bright. Hemmed in, by heaps of books, (In a high­vaulted Gothic chamber, Faust, in a chair at Piled to the highest vault, and higher, his desk, restless.) Worm eaten, decked with dust, Faust Surrounded by smoke‐blackened paper, (405) Ah! Now I've done Philosophy, Glass vials, boxes round me, hurled, I've finished Law and Medicine, (355) Stuffed with Instruments thrown together, And sadly even Theology: Packed with ancestral lumber Taken fierce pains, from end to end. This is my world! And what a world! Now here I am, a fool for sure! And need you ask why my heart (410) No wiser than I was before: Makes such tremors in my breast? Master, Doctor's what they call me, (360) Why all my life‐energies are And I've been ten years, already, Choked by some unknown distress? Crosswise, arcing, to and fro, Smoke and mildew hem me in, Leading my students by the nose, Instead of living Nature, then, (415) And see that we can know—nothing! Where God once created Men, It almost sets my heart burning. (365) Bones of creatures, and dead limbs! I'm cleverer than all these teachers, Fly! Upwards! Into Space, flung wide! Doctors, Masters, scribes, preachers: Isn't this book, with secrets crammed, I'm not plagued by doubt or scruple, From Nostradamus' very hand, (420) Scared by neither Hell nor Devil— Enough to be my guide? Instead all Joy is snatched away, (370) When I know the starry road, What's worth knowing, I can't say, And Nature, you instruct me, I can't say what I should teach My soul's power, you shall flow, To make men better or convert each. As spirits can with spirits be. (425) And then I've neither goods nor gold, Useless, this dusty pondering here No worldly honour, or splendour hold: (375) To read the sacred characters: Not even a dog would play this part! Soar round me, Spirits, and be near: So I've given myself to Magic art, If you hear me, then answer!

To see if, through Spirit powers and lips, (He opens the Book, and sees the Symbol of the I might have all secrets at my fingertips. Macrocosm) And no longer, with rancid sweat, so, (380) Still have to speak what I cannot know: That I may understand whatever Binds the world's innermost core together, See all its workings, and its seeds, Deal no more in words' empty reeds. (385) O, may you look, full moon that shines, On my pain for this last time: So many midnights from my desk, I have seen you, keeping watch: When over my books and paper, (390) Saddest friend, you appear!

Ah! If on the mountain height Ah! In a moment, what bliss flows (430) I might stand in your sweet light, Through my senses from this Sign! I feel life's youthful, holy joy: it glows, 5

Fresh in every nerve and vein of mine. You must! You must! Though my Life's lost, too!

This symbol now that calms my inward raging, (He grips the book and speaks the mysterious name of Perhaps a god deigned to write, (435) the Spirit. A crimson flame flashes, the Spirit appears in Filling my poor heart with delight, the flame.) And with its mysterious urging Revealing, round me, Nature's might? Spirit Who calls me? Am I a god? All seems so clear to me! It seems the deepest works of Nature (440) Faust Lie open to my soul, with purest feature. (Looking away) Now I understand what wise men see: Terrible to gaze at! "The world of spirits is not closed: Spirit Your senses are: your heart is dead! Mightily you have drawn me to you, Rise, unwearied, disciple: bathe instead (445) Long, from my sphere, snatched your food, Your earthly breast in the morning's glow!" And now— (He gazes at the Symbol.) Faust How each to the Whole its selfhood gives, Ah! Endure you, I cannot! (485) One in another works and lives! Spirit How Heavenly forces fall and rise, You beg me to show myself, you implore, Golden vessels pass each other by! (450) You wish to hear my voice, and see my face: Blessings from their wings disperse: The mighty prayer of your soul weighs They penetrate from Heaven to Earth, With me, I am here!—What wretched terror Sounding a harmony through the Universe! Grips you, the Superhuman! Such a picture! Ah, alas! Merely a picture! Where is your soul's calling? (490) How then can I grasp you endless Nature? (455) Where is the heart that made Where are your breasts that pour out Life entire, a world inside, enthralling: To which the Earth and Heavens cling so, Carried it, nourished it, swollen with joy, Where withered hearts would drink? You flow so tremulous, You nourish, yet I languish so, in vain desire. That you too might be a Spirit, one of us? (He strikes the book indignantly, and catches sight of Where are you, Faust, whose ringing voice the Symbol of the Earth­Spirit.) Drew towards me with all your force? (495)

How differently it works on me, this Sign! (460) Are you he, who, breathing my breath, You, the Spirit of Earth, are nearer: Trembles in all your life's depths, A fearful, writhing worm? Already, I feel my power is greater, Already, I glow, as with fresh wine. Faust I feel the courage to engage the world, Shall I fear you: you form of fire? Into the pain and joy of Earth be hurled, (465) I am, I am Faust: I am your peer! (500) And though the storm wind is unfurled, Spirit Fearless, in the shipwreck's teeth, be whirled. In Life's wave, in action's storm, There's cloud above me— I float, up and down, The Moon hides its light— I blow, to and fro! The lamp flickers! Birth and the tomb, Now it dies! Crimson rays dart (470) An eternal flow, (505) Round my head—Horror A woven changing, Flickers from the vault above, A glow of Being. And grips me tight! Over Time's quivering loom intent, I feel you float around me, (475) Working the Godhead's living garment. Spirit, I summon to appear, speak to me! Ah! What tears now at the core of me! Faust All my senses reeling You who wander the world, on every hand, (510) With fresh feeling! Active Spirit, how close to you I feel!

I feel you draw my whole heart towards you! (480) 6

Spirit Faust You're like the Spirit that you understand Seek to profit honestly! Not me! Don't be an empty tinkling fool!

(It vanishes.) Understanding, and true clarity, (550) Express themselves without art's rule! Faust And if you mean what you say, (Overwhelmed) Why hunt for words, anyway? Not you? Yes, your speech, that glitters so, Who then? (515) Where you gather scraps for Man, (555) I, the image of the Godhead! Is dead as the mist‐filled winds that blow Not even like you? Through the dried‐up leaves of autumn!

(A knock.) Wagner Oh, God! Art is long Oh, fate! I know that sound—it's my attendant— And life is short. My greatest fortune's ruined! Often the studies that I'm working on (560) In all the fullness of my doing, (520) Make me anxious, in my head and heart. He must intrude, that arid pedant! How hard it is to command the means (Wagner enters, in gown and nightcap, lamp in hand. By which a man attains the very source! Faust turns to him impatiently.) Before a man has travelled half his course,

Wagner The wretched devil has to die it seems. (565)

Forgive me! But I heard you declaim: Faust Reading, I'm sure, from some Greek tragedy? Parchment then, is that your holy well, To profit from that art is my aim, From which drink always slakes your thirst? Nowadays it goes down splendidly. (525) You'll never truly be refreshed until I've often heard it claimed, you see It pours itself from your own soul, first. A priest could learn from the Old Comedy. Wagner Faust Pardon me, but it's a great delight (570) Yes, when the priest's a comedian already: When, moved by the spirit of the ages, we have sight Which might well seem to be the case. Of how a wiser man has thought, and how

Wagner Widely at last we've spread his word about.

Ah! When a man's so penned in his study, (530) Faust And scarcely sees the world on holidays, Oh yes, as widely as the constellations! And barely through the glass, and far off then, My friend, all of the ages that are gone (575) How can he lead men, through persuading them? Now make up a book with seven seals.

Faust The spirit of the ages, that you find, You can't, if you can't feel it, if it never In the end, is the spirit of Humankind: Rises from the soul, and sways (535) A mirror where all the ages are revealed. The heart of every single hearer, And so often it's all a mere misery (580) With deepest power, in simple ways. Something we run away from at first sight. You'll sit forever, gluing things together, A pile of sweepings, a lumber room, maybe Cooking up a stew from other's scraps, At best, a puppet show, that's bright Blowing on a miserable fire, (540) With maxims, excellent, pragmatic, Made from your heap of dying ash. Suitable when dolls' mouths wax dramatic! (585)

Let apes and children praise your art, Wagner If their admiration's to your taste, But, the world! Men's hearts and minds! But you'll never speak from heart to heart, Something of those, at least, I'd like to know. Unless it rises up from your heart's space. (545) Faust Wagner Yes, what men choose to understand! Still, lecturing brings orators success: Who dares to name the child's real name, though? I feel that I am far behind the rest. The few who knew what might be learned, (590)

Foolish enough to put their whole heart on show, 7

And reveal their feelings to the crowd below, If imagination flew with courage, once, (640) Mankind has always crucified and burned. And, full of hope, stretched out to eternity, I beg you, friend, it's now the dead of night, Now a little room is quite enough, We must break up this conversation. (595) When joy on joy has gone, in time's whirling sea.

Wagner Care has nested in the heart's depths, I would have watched with you, if I might Restless, she rocks there, spoiling joy and rest, (645) Speak with you still, so learned in oration. There she works her secret pain, But tomorrow, on Easter's first holy day, And wears new masks, ever and again, I'll ask my several questions, if I may. Appears as wife and child, fields and houses, I've pursued my work, zealously studying: (600) As water, fire, or knife or poison: There's much I know: yet I'd know everything. Still we tremble for what never strikes us, (650) And must still cry for what has not yet gone. (He leaves.) I am no god: I feel it all too deeply. Faust I am the worm that writhes in dust: see, (Alone.) As in the dust it lives, and seeks to eat, That mind alone never loses hope, It's crushed and buried by the passing feet. (655) That keeps to the shallows eternally, Is this not dust, what these vaults hold, Grabs, with eager hand, the wealth it sees, These hundred shelves that cramp me: And rejoices at the worms for which it gropes! (605) This junk, and all the thousand‐fold Dare such a human voice echo, too, Shapes, of a moth‐ridden world, around me? Where this depth of Spirit surrounds me? Will I find here what I'm lacking else, (660) Ah yet! For just this once, my thanks to you, Shall I read, perhaps, as a thousand books insist, You sorriest of all earth's progeny! That Mankind everywhere torments itself, You've torn me away from that despair, (610) So, here and there, some happy man exists? That would have soon overwhelmed my senses. What do you say to me, bare grinning skull? Ah! The apparition was so hugely there, Except that once your brain whirled like mine, (665) It might have truly dwarfed my defences. Sought the clear day, and in the twilight dull, I, image of the Godhead, already one, With a breath of truth, went wretchedly awry. Who thought the spirit of eternal truth so near, (615) For sure, you instruments mock at me, Enjoying the light, both heavenly and clear, With cylinders and arms, wheels and cogs: Setting to one side the earthbound man: I stand at the door: and you should be the key: (670) I, more than Angel, a free force, You're deftly cut, but you undo no locks. Ready to flow through Nature's veins, Mysterious, even in broad daylight, And, in creating, enjoy the life divine, (620) Nature won't let her veil be raised: Pulsing with ideas: must atone again! What your spirit can't bring to sight, A word like thunder swept me away. Won't by screws and levers be displayed. (675) I dare not measure myself against you. You, ancient tools, I've never used I possessed the power to summon you, You're here because my father used you, But not the power to make you stay. (625) Ancient scroll, you've darkened too, In that blissful moment, then From smoking candles burned above you. I felt myself so small, so great: Better the little I had was squandered, (680) Cruelly you hurled me back again, Than sweat here under its puny weight! Into Man's uncertain state. What from your father you've inherited, What shall I learn from? Or leave? (630) You must earn again, to own it straight. Shall I obey that yearning? What's never used, leaves us overburdened, Ah! Our actions, and not just our grief, But we can use what the Moment may create! (685) Impede us on life's journey. Yet why does that place so draw my sight, Some more and more alien substance presses Is that flask a magnet for my gaze? On the splendour that the Mind conceives: (635) Why is there suddenly so sweet a light, And when we gain what this world possesses, As moonlight in a midnight woodland plays? We say the better world's dream deceives. I salute you, phial of rare potion, (690) The splendid feelings that give us life, I lift you down, with devotion! Fade among the crowd's earthly strife. In you I worship man's art and mind, 8

Embodiment of sweet sleeping draughts: Faust Extract, with deadly power, refined, What deep humming, what shining sound Show your master all his craft! (695) Strikes the glass from my hand with power? I see you, and my pain diminishes, Already, do the hollow bells resound, I grasp you, and my struggles grow less, Proclaiming Easter's festive course? Our (745) My spirit's flood tide ebbs, more and more, Choirs, do you already sing the hymn of consolation, I seem to be where ocean waters meet, Which once rang out, in deathly night, in Angels' A glassy flood gleams around my feet, (700) oration, New day invites me to a newer shore. That certainty of a new testament's hour? A fiery chariot sweeps nearer On light wings! I feel ready, free Chorus of Women To cut a new path through the ether With pure spices And reach new spheres of pure activity. (705) We embalmed him, (750) This greater life, this godlike bliss! We his faithful You, but a worm, have you earned this? We entombed him: Choosing to turn your back, ah yes, Linen and bindings, On all Earth's lovely Sun might promise! We unwound there, Let me dare to throw those gates open, (710) Ah! Now we find (755) Christ is not here. That other men go creeping by! Now's the time, to prove through action Choir of Angels Man's dignity may rise divinely high, Christ has arisen! Never trembling at that void where, Blissful Beloved, Imagination damns itself to pain, (715) Out of what grieved, Striving towards the passage there, Tested, and healed: (760) Round whose mouth all Hell's fires flame: His trial is won. Choose to take that step, happy to go Faust Where danger lies, where Nothingness may flow. You heavenly sounds, powerful and mild, Come here to me, cup of crystal, clear! (720) Why, in the dust, here, do you seek me? Free of your ancient cover now appear, Ring out where tender hearts are reconciled. You whom I've never, for many a year, I hear your message, but faith fails me: (765) Considered! You shone at ancestral feasts, The marvellous is faith's dearest child. Cheering the over‐serious guests: I don't attempt to rise to that sphere, One man passing you to another here. (725) From which the message rings: It was the drinker's duty to explain in rhyme Yet I know from childhood what it sings, The splendour of your many carved designs And I'm recalled to life once more. (770) Or drain it at a draught, and breathe, in time: In other times a Heavenly kiss would fall You remind me of those youthful nights of mine. On me, in the deep Sabbath silence: Now I will never pass you to a friend, (730) The bell notes filled with presentiments, Or test my wits on your art again. And a prayer was pleasure's call: Here's a juice will stun any man born: A sweet yearning, beyond my understanding, (775) It fills your hollow with a browner liquid. Set me wandering through woods and fields, I prepared it, now I choose the fluid, And while a thousand tears were burning At last I drink, and with my soul I bid (735) I felt a world around me come to be. A high and festive greeting to the Dawn! Love called out the lively games of youth, (He puts the cup to his mouth.) The joy of spring's idle holiday: (780)

(Bells chime and a choir sings.) Memory's childish feelings, in truth, Hold me back from the last sombre way. Choir of Angels O, sing on you sweet songs of Heaven! Christ has arisen! My tears flow, Earth claims me again! Joy to the One, of us, Who the pernicious, Chorus of Disciples Ancestral, insidious, (740) Has the buried one (785) Fault has unwoven. Already, living, 9

Raised himself, alone, A Fourth Splendidly soaring: Come to the Castle, you'll find there Is he, in teeming air, The prettiest girls, the finest beer, (815) Near to creative bliss: (790) And the best place for a fight. Ah! In sorrow, we're Here on Earth's breast. A Fifth Lacking Him, we You quarrelsome fool, are you looking Languish, and sigh. For a third good hiding? Not for me, that place, I hate its very sight. Ah! Master we (795) Cry for your joy! A Maidservant

No, No! I'm going back to town. (820) Choir of Angels Christ has arisen Another Out of corruption's sea. We'll find him by those poplar trees for sure. Tear off your bindings The First Joyfully free! (800) Well that's no joy for me, now: Actively praising him, He'll walk by your side, of course, Lovingly claiming him, He'll dance with you on the green. Fraternally aiding him, Where's the fun in that for me, then! (825) Prayerfully journeying, Joyfully promising, (805) The Other So is the Master near, I'm sure he's not alone, he said So is he here! He'd bring along that Curly‐head.

A Student My how they strut those bold women! Brother, come on! We'll follow them. Fierce tobacco, strong beer, (830) And a girl in her finery, I prefer.

A Citizen's Daughter They are handsome boys there, I see! But it's truly a disgrace: They could have the best of company, And run after a painted face! (835)

Second Student Scene 2: In Front Of The City­Gate (to the first)

(Passers­by of all kinds appear.) Not so fast! Those two behind, They walk about so sweetly, Several Apprentices One must be that neighbour of mine: So, then, where are you away to? I could fall for her completely. Others They pass by with demure paces, (840) We're away to the Hunting Lodge. But in the end they'll go with us.

The Former The First We're off to saunter by the Mill. (810) Brother, no! I shouldn't bother, anyway. Quick! Before our quarry gets away. An Apprentice The hand that wields a broom on Saturday, Off to the Riverside Inn, I'd guess. Gives the best caress, on Sunday too, I say. (845) A Second Apprentice Citizen The way there's not of the best. No, the new mayor doesn't suit me! The Others Now he's there he's getting cocky. What about you? And what's he done to help the town?

A Third Isn't it getting worse each day? I'm with the others, still. As always it's us who must obey, (850) 10

And pay more money down. Do our recruiting,

A Beggar Calling to joy (sings) Calling to ruin. Fine gentlemen, and lovely ladies, It's a storm, blowing! (895) Rosy‐cheeked and finely dressed, But it's the life too! You could help me, for your aid is Girls and castles Needed: see, ease my distress! (855) We must win you. Don't let me throw my song away, The action is brave, Only he who gives is happy. Splendid the pay! (900) A day when all men celebrate, And the soldiers Go marching away. Will be a harvest day for me! (Faust and Wagner) Another Citizen On holidays there's nothing I like better (860) Faust Than talking about war and war's display, Rivers and streams are freed from ice When in Turkey far away, By Spring's sweet enlivening glance. People one another batter. Valleys, green with Hope's happiness, dance: (905) You sit by the window: have a glass: Old Winter, in his weakness, sighs, See the bright boats glide down the river, (865) Withdrawing to the harsh mountains. Then you walk back home and bless From there, retreating, he sends down Its peacefulness, and peace, forever. Impotent showers of hail that show

Third Citizen In stripes across the quickening ground. (910) Neighbour, yes! I like that too: But the sun allows nothing white below, Let them go and break their heads, Change and growth are everywhere, Make the mess they often do: (870) He enlivens all with his colours there, So long as we're safe in our beds. And lacking flowers of the fields outspread, He takes these gaudy people instead. (915) An Old Woman Turn round, and from this mountain height, (to the citizen's daughter) Look down, where the town's in sight. Ah! So pretty! Sweet young blood! That cavernous, dark gate, Who wouldn't gaze at you? The colourful crowd penetrate, Don't be so proud! I'm very good! All will take the sun today, (920) And what you want, I'll bring you. (875) The Risen Lord they'll celebrate, The Citizen's Daughter And feel they are resurrected, Agatha, come away! I must go carefully: From low houses, dully made, No walking freely with such a witch as her: From work, where they're constricted, For on Saint Andrew's Night she really From the roofs' and gables' weight, (925) Showed me who'll be my future Lover. From the crush of narrow streets, From the churches' solemn night The Other They're all brought to the light. She showed me mine in a crystal ball, (880) Look now: see! The crowds, their feet A soldier, with lots of other brave men: Crushing the gardens and meadows, (930) I look around: among them all, While on the river a cheerful fleet Yet I can never find him. Of little boats, everywhere it flows. The Soldiers And over‐laden, ready to sink, Castles with towering The last barge takes to the stream. Ramparts and wall, (885) From far off on the mountain's brink, (935) Proud girls showing All the bright clothing gleams. Disdain for us all, I hear the noise from the village risen, We want them to fall! Here is the people's true Heaven, The action is brave, High and low shout happily: And splendid the pay! (890) Here I am Man: here, dare to be! (940) So let the trumpet, 11

Wagner But the count of drops it holds Doctor, to take a walk with you, May it exceed your hours, all told. (990)

Is an honour and a prize: Faust Alone I'd have no business here, true, I'll take some of your foaming drink, Since everything that's coarse I despise. And offer you all, health and thanks. Shrieking, fiddlers, skittles flying, (945) (The people gather round him in a circle.) To me it's all a hateful noise: They rush about possessed, crying, The Old Farmer And call it singing: and call it joy. Truly, it's a thing well done:

(Farm­workers under the lime tree. Dance and Song.) You're here on our day of happiness, Since in evil times now gone, (995) The shepherd for the dance, had on You've eased our distress! His gaudy jacket, wreath, and ribbon, (950) Many a man stands here alive, Making a fine show, Whom your father, at the last, Under the linden‐tree, already, Snatched from the fever's rage, Everyone was dancing madly. While the plague went past. (1000) Hey! Hey! And you, only a young man, went, Hurrah! Hurray! (955) Into every house of sickness, then, So goes the fiddle‐bow. Though many a corpse was carried forth, In his haste, in a whirl, You walked safely out again. He stumbled against a girl, Many a hard trial you withstood, (1005) With his elbow flailing: A Helper helped by the Helper above.

Lively, she turned, and said: (960) All Mind out, you wooden‐head! Health to the man who's proven true, Hey! Hey! Long may he help me and you! Hurrah! Hurray! Just watch where you're sailing! Faust To Him above bow down instead, Fast around the circle bright, (965) Who teaches help, and sends his aid. (1010) They danced to left and right, (He walks off, with Wagner.) Skirts and jackets flying. They grew red: they grew warm, Wagner They rested, panting, arm on arm How it must feel, O man of genius, Hey! Hey! (970) To be respected by the crowd! Hurrah! Hurray! O happy he whose gifts endow And hip, and elbow, lying. Him with such advantages!

Don't be so familiar then! The father shows you to his son, now (1015) That's how many a lying man, Each one asks and pushes near, Cheated his wife so! (975) The fiddle halts, and the dancers there: But he soon tempted her aside, You pass: in ranks they stop to see, And from the linden echoed wide: And throw their caps high in the air: Hey! Hey! A little more and they'd bend the knee, (1020) As if what they worshipped was holy. Hurrah! Hurray! So goes the fiddle‐bow. (980) Faust

An Old Farmer Climb these few steps to that stone, Doctor, it's good of you today Here we'll rest from our wandering. Not to shun the crowd, Here I've sat often, thoughtful and alone, So that among the folk, at play, Tormenting myself with prayer and fasting. (1025) The learned man walks about. Rich in hope, and firm of faith, Then have some from the finest jug (985) Wringing my hands, with sighs even, That we've filled with fresh ale first, Tears, to force the end of plague I offer it now and wish it would, From the very God of Heaven. Not only quench your thirst: The crowd's approval now's like scorn. (1030) 12

O if you could read within me The wild peaks with their deep clefts, (1080) How little the father and the son Would cease to bar my godlike way, Deserve a fraction of their glory. Already the sea with its warm depths, My father was a gloomy, honourable man, Opens to my astonished gaze. Who pondered Nature and the At last the weary god sinks down to night: heavenly spheres, (1035) But in me a newer yearning wakes, (1085) Honestly, in his own fashion, I hasten on, drinking his endless light: With eccentric studies it appears: The dark behind me: and ahead the day. He, in his adepts' company, Heaven above me: and the waves below, Locked in his dark workshop, forever A lovely dream, although it vanishes. Tried with endless recipes, (1040) Ah! Wings of the mind, so weightless (1090) To make things opposite flow together. No bodily wings could ever be so. The fiery Lion, a daring suitor, Yet it's natural in every spirit, too, Wed the Lily, in a lukewarm bath, there That feeling drives us, up and on, In a fiery flame, both of them were When over us, lost in the vault of blue, Strained from one bride‐bed into another, (1045) The lark sings his piercing song, (1095) Until the young Queen was descried, When over the steep pine‐filled peaks, In a mix of colours, in the glass: The eagle widely soars, There was the medicine: the patient died. And across the plains and seas, And who recovered? No one asked. The cranes seek their home shores.

So we roamed, with our hellish pills, (1050) Wagner Among the valleys and the hills, I've often had strange moments, I know, (1100) Worse than the pestilence itself we were. But I've never felt yearnings quite like those: I've poisoned a thousand: that's quite clear: The joys of woods and fields soon fade And now from the withered old must hear I wouldn't ask the birds for wings: indeed, How men praise a shameless murderer. (1055) How differently the mind's raptures lead Wagner Us on, from book to book, and page to page! (1105) How can you grieve at that! Then winter nights are beautiful, and sweet, Isn't it enough for an honest man A blissful warmth steals through your limbs, too To exercise the skill he has, When you've unrolled some noble text, complete, Carefully, precisely, as given? Oh, how heaven's light descends on you!

Honour your father as a youth, (1060) Faust And receive his teaching in your soul, You only feel the one yearning at best, (1110) As a man, then, add to scientific truth, Oh, never seek to know the other! So your son can achieve a higher goal. Two souls, alas, exist in my breast, Faust One separated from another: O happy the man who still can hope One, with its crude love of life, just Though drowned in a sea of error! (1065) Clings to the world, tenaciously, grips tight, (1115) Man needs the things he doesn't know, The other soars powerfully above the dust, What he knows is useless, forever. Into the far ancestral height. But don't let such despondency Oh, let the spirits of the air, Spoil the deep goodness of the hour! Between the heavens and Earth, weaving, In the evening glow, we see (1070) Descend through the golden atmosphere, (1120) The houses gleaming, green‐embowered. And lead me on to new and varied being! Mild it retreats, the day that's left, Yes, if a magic cloak were mine, that It slips away to claim new being. Would carry me off to foreign lands, Ah, that no wing from earth can lift Not for the costliest garment in my hands, Me, closer and closer to it, striving! (1075) For the mantle of a king, would I resign it! (1125)

I'd see, in eternal evening's light, Wagner The silent Earth beneath my feet, forever, Don't call to that familiar crowd, The heights on fire, each valley quiet Streaming in misty circles, spreading, While silver streams flow to a golden river. Preparing a thousand dangers now, 13

On every side, for human beings. Faust The North winds' sharp teeth penetrate, (1130) Come on! Here, now! Here, to me!

Down here, and spit you with their fangs: Wagner Then the East's drying winds are at the gate, He's a dogged hound, I agree. To feed themselves on your lungs. Stand still and he holds his ground: If, from the South, the desert sends them, Talk to him, he dances round: And fire on fire burns on your brow, (1135) What you've lost, he'll bring to you: (1170) The West brings a swarm to quench them, Retrieve a stick from the water, too. And you and field and meadow drown. They hear us, while they're harming us, Faust Hear us, while they are betraying: You're right: and I see nothing Like a Spirit there, it's only training. They make out they're from heaven above, (1140) And lisp like angels when they're lying. Wagner Let's go on! The world has darkened, A wise man finds agreeable, The air is cool: the mists descend! A dog that's learnt its lesson well. (1175) Man values his own house at night. Yes, he deserves all your favour, What is it occupies your sight? (1145) Among the students, the true scholar! What troubles you so, in the evening? (They enter the City gate.) Faust Through corn and stubble, see that black dog running?

Wagner I saw him long ago: he seems a wretched thing.

Faust Look at him closely! What do you make of him?

Wagner A dog that, in the way they do, (1150) Sniffs around to find his master.

Faust See how he winds in wide spirals too, Scene 3: The Study

Round us here, yet always coming nearer? (Faust enters, with the dog.) And if I'm right, I see a swirl of fire Twisting about, behind his track. (1155) Faust Fields and meadows now I've left Wagner Clothed in deepest night, Perhaps your eyesight proves a liar, Full of presentiments, a holy dread (1180) I only see a dog, that's black. Wakes the better soul in me to light. Faust Wild desires no longer stir It seems to me that with a subtle magic, At every restless act of mine: He winds a fatal knot around our feet. Love for Humanity is here, And here is Love Divine. (1185) Wagner I see his timid and uncertain antics, (1160) Quiet, dog! Stop running to and fro! It's strangers, not his master, whom he meets. Why are you snuffling at the door? Lie down now, behind the stove, Faust There's my best cushion on the floor. The circle narrows: now he's here! Since you amused us running, leaping, (1190) Wagner Out on the mountainside, with zest, You see a dog, there's no spectre near! Now I take you into my keeping, He barks uncertainly, lies down and crawls, A welcome, and a silent guest. Wags his tail. Dogs' habits, after all. (1165) Ah, when in our narrow room, The friendly lamp glows on the shelf, (1195) 14

Brightness burns in our inner gloom, Must leave the other free. In the Heart, that knows itself. I've no more hospitality to show, (1245) Reason speaks with insistence, The door's open, you can go. And Hope once more appears, But what's this I see! We see the River of Existence, (1200) Can this happen naturally? Ah, the founts of Life, are near. Is it a phantom or is it real?

Don't growl, dog! With this holy sound The dog's growing big and tall. (1250) Which I, with all my soul, embrace, He rises powerfully, Your bestial noise seems out of place. It's no doglike shape I see! Men usually scorn the things, I've found, (1205) What a spectre I brought home! That, by them, can't be understood, Like a hippo in the room, Grumbling at beauty, and the good, With fiery eyes, and fearful jaws. (1255) That to them seems wearisome: Oh! Now, what you are, I'm sure! Can't a dog, then, snarl like them? The Key of Solomon is good For conjuring your half‐hellish brood. Oh, yet now I can feel no contentment (1210) Flow through me, despite my best intent. Spirits Why must the stream fail so quickly, (In the corridor.) And once again leave us thirsty? Something's trapped inside! I've long experience of it, yet I think Don't follow it: stay outside! (1260) I could supply what's missing, easily: (1215) Like a fox in a snare We learn to value what's beyond the earthly, An old lynx from hell trembles there. We yearn to reach revelation's brink, Be careful what you're about! That's nowhere nobler or more excellent Float here: float there, Than where it burns in the New Testament. Under and over, (1265) I yearn to render the first version, (1220) And he'll work his way out. With true feeling, once and for all, If you know how to help him, Translate the sacred original Don't let yourself fail him! Into my beloved German. Since it's all done for sure, Just for your pleasure. (1270) (He opens the volume, and begins.) First speak the Words of the Four It's written here: 'In the Beginning was the Word!' To encounter the creature. Here I stick already! Who can help me? Salamander, be glowing, It's absurd, (1225) Undine, flow near, Impossible, for me to rate the word so highly Sylph, disappear, (1275) I must try to say it differently Gnome, be delving. If I'm truly inspired by the Spirit. I find I've written here: 'In the Beginning was the Mind'. Who does not know Let me consider that first sentence, (1230) The Elements so, So my pen won't run on in advance! Their power sees, Is it Mind that works and creates what's ours? And properties, (1280) It should say: 'In the beginning was the Power!' Cannot lord it Over the Spirits. Yet even while I write the words down, I'm warned: I'm no closer with these Vanish in flame, I've found. (1235) Salamander! The Spirit helps me! I have it now, intact. Rush together in foam, (1285) And firmly write: 'In the Beginning was the Act!' Undine!

If I'm to share my room with you, Shine with meteor‐gleam, Dog, you can stop howling too: Sylph! Stop your yapping! (1240) Bring help to the home, A fellow who's always snapping, Incubus! Incubus! (1290) Go before and end it thus! I can't allow too near me. One of us you see, None of the Four 15

Show in the creature. What you are, we all too clearly recognise He lies there quietly grinning at me: One who's called Liar, Ruin, Lord of the Flies. I've not stirred him enough it seems. (1295) Well, what are you then? (1335)

But you'll hear how Mephistopheles I'll press him hard now. Part of the Power that would My good fellow, are you Always wish Evil, and always works the Good. Exiled from Hell's crew? Witness the Symbol (1300) Faust What meaning to these riddling words applies? Before which they bow, The dark crowd there! Mephistopheles Now it swells, with its bristling hair. I am the spirit, ever, that denies! Depraved being! And rightly so: since everything created, Can you know what you're seeing? (1305) In turn deserves to be annihilated: (1340) The uncreated One Better if nothing came to be. With name unexpressed, So all that you call Sin, you see, Poured through Heaven, Destruction, in short, what you've meant Pierced without redress? By Evil is my true element.

Spellbound, behind the stove, (1310) Faust An elephant grows. You call yourself a part, yet seem complete It fills the room, completely, to me? (1345) It will vanish like mist, I can see. Mephistopheles Don't rise to the ceiling! I'm speaking the truth to you, and modestly. Lie down at your master's feet! (1315) Even if Man's accustomed to take You see I don't threaten you lightly. His small world for the Whole, that's his mistake: I'll sting you with fire that's holy! I'm part of the part, that once was—everything, Don't wait for the bright Part of the darkness, from which Light, Triple glowing Light! issuing, (1350) Don't wait for (1320) Proud Light, emergent, disputed the highest place My highest art! With its mother Night, the bounds of Space, (As the mist clears, Mephistopheles steps from behind And yet won nothing, however hard it tried, the stove, dressed as a wandering Scholar.) Still stuck to Bodily Things, and so denied.

Mephistopheles It flows from bodies, which it beautifies, (1355) Why such alarms? What command would my lord And bodies block its way: I hope the day's not far away impart? When it, along with all these bodies, dies. Faust This was the dog's core! Faust A wandering scholar? The fact makes me smile. Now I see the plan you follow! You can't destroy it all, and so (1360) Mephistopheles You're working on a smaller scale. I bow to the learned lord! (1325) You certainly made me sweat, in style. Mephistopheles And frankly it's a sorry tale. Faust What's set against the Nothingness, How are you named? The Something, World's clumsiness, Mephistopheles Despite everything I've tried, (1365) A slight question Won't become a nothing: though I'd For one who so disdains the Word, Storms, quakes, and fires on every hand, Is so distant from appearance: one It deigned to stay as sea and land! Whom only the vital depths have stirred. (1330) And those Men and creatures, all the damned, It's no use my owning any of that crew: (1370) Faust We usually gather from your names How many I've already done with too! The nature of you gentlemen: it's plain Yet new fresh blood is always going round. 16

So it goes on, men make me furious! In the first we're free, in the second slaves to the act.

With water, earth and air, of course, Faust A thousand buds unfurl (1375) So you still have laws in Hell, in fact? In wet and dry, warm and cold! That's good, since it allows a pact, And if I hadn't kept back fire of old, And one with you gentlemen truly binds? (1415) I'd have nothing left at all. Mephistopheles Faust What's promised you'll enjoy, and find, So you set the Devil's fist There's nothing mean that we enact. That vainly clenches itself, (1380) But it can't be done so fast, Against the eternally active, First we'll have to talk it through, Wholesome, creative force! Yet, urgently, I beg of you (1420) Strange son of Chaos, start Let me go my way at last. On something else instead! Faust Mephistopheles Wait a moment now, Truly I'll think about it: more (1385) Tell me some good news first. Next time, on that head! Might I be allowed to go? Mephistopheles I'll soon be back, just let me go: Faust Then you can ask me what you wish. (1425) I see no reason for you to ask it. Since I've learnt to know you now, Faust When you wish: then make a visit. (1390) I didn't place you here, tonight. There's the door, here's the window, You trapped yourself in the lime. And, of course, there's the chimney. Who snares the devil, holds him tight! He won't be caught like that a second time. Mephistopheles I must confess, I'm prevented though Mephistopheles By a little thing that hinders me, I'm willing, if you so wish, (1430) The Druid's‐foot on your doorsill—(1395) To stay here, in your company: So long as we pass the time, and I insist, Faust On arts of mine, exclusively. The Pentagram gives you pain? Then tell me, you Son of Hell, Faust If that's the case, how did you gain Gladly, you're free to present Them, as long as they're all pleasant. (1435) Entry? Are spirits like you cheated?

Mephistopheles Mephistopheles Look carefully! It's not completed: (1400) My friend you'll win more One angle, if you inspect it closely For your senses, in an hour, Has, as you see, been left a little open. Than in a whole year's monotony. What the tender spirits sing, Faust The lovely pictures that they bring, (1440) Just by chance as it happens! Are no empty wizardry. And left you prisoner to me? First your sense of smell's invited, Success created by approximation! (1405) Then your palate is delighted, Mephistopheles And then your touch, you see. The dog saw nothing, in his animation, Now, I need no preparation, (1445) Now the affair seems inside out, We're all here, so let's begin! The Devil can't get out of the house. Spirits Faust Vanish, you shadowy Why not try the window then? Vaults above!

Mephistopheles Cheerfully show, To devils and ghosts the same laws appertain: (1410) The friendliest blue (1450) The same way they enter in, they must go out. Of aether, down here. Would that shadowy 17

Clouds had gone! Mephistopheles Starlight sparkling He's asleep! Enough, you delicate children of air! Milder sun (1455) You've sung to him faithfully, I declare! Shining clear. I'm in your debt for all this. Heavenly children He's not yet the man to hold devils fast! In lovely confusion, Spellbind him with dream‐forms, cast (1510) Swaying and bending, Him deep into illusions' sea: Drifting past. (1460) Now, for the magic sill I must pass, Affectionate yearning, I could use rat's teeth: no need for me Following fast: To conjure up a lengthier spell, Their garments flowing One's rustling here that will do well. (1515) With fluttering ribbons, Cover the gardens, (1465) The Lord of Rats and Mice, Cover the leaves, Of Flies, Frogs, Bugs and Lice, Where with each other Summons you to venture here, In deep conversation And gnaw the threshold where Lover meets lover. He stains it with a little oil—(1520) Leaves on leaves! (1470) You've hopped, already, to your toil! Tendrils' elation! Now set to work! The fatal point, Grapes beneath Is at the edge, it's on the front. Crushed in a stream, One more bite, then it's complete— Now Faust, dream deeply, till we meet. (1525) Pressed to extreme, Crushed to fountain, (1475) Faust Of foaming wine, (Waking.) Trickling, fine, Am I cheated then, once again? Through rocks divine, Does the Spirit‐Realm's deep yearning fade: Leaving the heights, So a mere dream has conjured up the devil, Spreading beneath, (1480) And only a dog, it was, that ran away? Broad as the seas, Scene 4: The Study Valleys it fills Round the green hills. (Faust, Mephistopheles)

And the wings still, Faust

Blissfully drunk, (1485) A knock? Enter! Who's plaguing me again? (1530) Fly to the sun, Mephistopheles Fly to the brightness, I am Towards the islands, Out of the waves Faust Magically raised: (1490) Enter!

Now we can hear Mephistopheles The choir of joy near, Three times you must say it, then. Over the meadow, See how they dance now, Faust So! Enter! All in the air (1495) Dispersing there. Mephistopheles Some of them climbing Ah, now, you please me. Over the mountains, I hope we'll get along together: Others are swimming To drive away the gloomy weather, Over the ocean, (1500) I'm dressed like young nobility, (1535) Others take flight: In a scarlet gold‐trimmed coat, All towards Life, In a little silk‐lined cloak, All towards distant, A cockerel feather in my hat, Love of the stars, and With a long, pointed sword, Approval's bliss. (1505) And I advise you, at that, (1540) 18

To do as I do, in a word: Faust So that, footloose, fancy free, When sweet familiar tones drew me, You can experience Life, with me. Away from the tormenting crowd,

Faust Then my other childhood feelings (1585) This life of earth, its narrowness, Better times echoed, and allowed. Pains me, however I'm turned out, (1545) So I curse whatever snares the soul, I'm too old to play about, In its magical, enticing arms, Too young, still, to be passionless. Banishes it to this mournful hole, What can the world bring me again? With dazzling, seductive charms! (1590) Abstain! You shall! You must! Abstain! Cursed be those high Opinions first, That's the eternal song (1550) With which the mind entraps itself! That in our ears, forever, rings Then glittering Appearance curse, The one, that, our whole life long, In which the senses lose themselves! Every hour, hoarsely, sings. Curse what deceives us in our dreaming, (1595) I wake in terror with the dawn, With thoughts of everlasting fame! I cry, the bitterest tears, to see (1555) Curse the flattery of 'possessing' Day grant no wish of mine, not one Wife and child, lands and name! As it passes by on its journey. Curse Mammon, when he drives us Even presentiments of joy To bold acts to win our treasure: (1600) Ebb, in wilful depreciation: Or straightens out our pillows A thousand grimaces life employs (1560) For us to idle at our leisure! To hinder me in creation. Curse the sweet juice of the grape! Then when night descends I must Curse the highest favours Love lets fall! Stretch out, worried, on my bed: Cursed be Hope! Cursed be Faith, (1605) And cursed be Patience most of all! What comes to me is never rest, But some wild dream instead. (1565) Choir of Spirits The God that lives inside my heart, (Unseen) Can rouse my innermost seeing: Sorrow! Sorrow! The one enthroned beyond my art, You've destroyed it, Can't stir external being: The beautiful world, And so existence is a burden: sated, (1570) With a powerful fist: (1610) Death's desired, and Life is hated. It tumbles, it's hurled

Mephistopheles To ruin! A demigod crushed it! Yet Death's a guest who's visit's We carry never wholly celebrated. Fragments into the void, And sadly (1615) Faust Lament the Beauty that's gone. Happy the man whom victory enhances, Stronger Whose brow the bloodstained laurel warms, For all of Earth's sons, Who, after the swift whirling dances, (1575) Brighter, Finds himself in some girl's arms! Build it again, (1620) If only, in my joy, then, I'd sunk down Build, in your heart! Before that enrapturing Spirit power! Life's new start, Mephistopheles Begin again, Yet someone, from a certain brown With senses washed clean, Liquid, drank not a drop, at midnight hour. (1580) And sound, then, (1625) A newer art! Faust It seems that you delight in spying. Mephistopheles They're little, but fine, Mephistopheles These attendants of mine. I know a lot: and yet I'm not all‐knowing. Precocious advice they give, listen, Regarding both action, and passion! (1630) 19

Into the World outside, Faust From Solitude, that's dried Poor devil what can you give? When has ever (1675) Your sap and senses, A human spirit, in its highest endeavour, They tempt us. Been understood by such a one as you? Stop playing with grief, (1635) You have a never‐satiating food, That feeds, a vulture, on your breast, You have your restless gold, a slew The worst society, you'll find, will prompt belief, Of quicksilver, melting in the hand, (1680) That you're a Man among the rest. Games whose prize no man can land, Not that I mean A girl, who while she's on my arm, To shove you into the mass. (1640) Snares a neighbour, with her eyes: Among 'the greats', I'm second‐class: And Honour's fine and godlike charm, But if you, in my company, That, like a meteor, dies? (1685) Your path through life would wend, Show me fruits then that rot, before they're ready. I'll willingly condescend And trees grown green again, each day, too!

To serve you, as we go. (1645) Mephistopheles I'm your man, and so, Such commands don't frighten me: If it suits you of course, With such treasures I can truly serve you. I'm your slave: I'm yours! Still, my good friend, a time may come, (1690) Faust When one prefers to eat what's good in peace. And what must I do in exchange? Faust Mephistopheles When I lie quiet in bed, at ease. There's lots of time: you've got the gist. (1650) Then let my time be done!

Faust If you fool me, with flatteries, No, no! The Devil is an egotist, Till my own self's a joy to me, (1695) Does nothing lightly, or in God's name, If you snare me with luxury— To help another, so I insist, Let that be the last day I see! That bet I'll make! Speak your demands out loud, Such servants are risks, in a house. (1655) Mephistopheles Done! Mephistopheles I'll be your servant here, and I'll Faust Not stop or rest, at your decree: And quickly! When we're together, on the other side, When, to the Moment then, I say: You'll do the same for me. 'Ah, stay a while! You are so lovely!' (1700)

Faust Then you can grasp me: then you may, The 'other side' concerns me less: (1660) Then, to my ruin, I'll go gladly! Shatter this world, in pieces, Then they can ring the passing bell, The other one can take its place, Then from your service you are free, The root of my joy's on this Earth, The clocks may halt, the hands be still, (1705) And time be past and done, for me! And this Sun lights my sorrow: If I must part from them tomorrow, (1665) Mephistopheles What can or will be, that I'll face. Consider well, we'll not forget.

I'll hear no more of it, of whether Faust In that future, men both hate and love, You have your rights, complete: Or whether in those spheres, forever, I never over‐estimate my powers. We're given a below and an above. (1670) I'll be a slave, in defeat: (1710) Mephistopheles Why ask whose slave or yours?

In that case, you can venture all. Mephistopheles Commit yourself: today, you shall Today, likewise, at the Doctors' Feast View my arts with joy: I mean I'll do my duty as your servant. To show you what no man has seen. One thing, though!—Re: life and death, I want 20

A few lines from you, at the least. (1715) Mephistopheles

Faust No goal or measure's set for you. (1760) You pedant, you demand it now in writing? Do as you wish, nibble at everything, You still won't take Man's word for anything? Catch at fragments while you're flying, It's not enough that the things I say, Enjoy it all, whatever you find to do. Now grab at it, and don't be stupid! Will always accord with my future? The world never ceases to wear away, (1720) Faust And shall a promise bind me, then, forever? It's not joy we're about: you heard it. (1765) Yet that's the illusion in our minds, I'll take the frenzy, pain‐filled elation, And who then would be free of it? Loving hatred, enlivening frustration. Happy the man, who pure truth finds, Cured of its urge to know, my mind And who'll never deign to sacrifice it! (1725) In future, will not hide from any pain, Still a document, written and signed, And what is shared by all mankind, (1770) That's a ghost makes all men fear it. In my innermost self, I'll contain: The word is already dying in the pen, My soul will grasp the high and low, And wax and leather hold the power then. My heart accumulate its bliss and woe, What do you want from me base spirit? (1730) So this self will embrace all theirs, Will iron: marble: parchment: paper do it? That, in the end, their fate it shares. (1775)

Shall I write with stylus, pen or chisel? Mephistopheles I'll leave the whole decision up to you. Believe me, many a thousand year Mephistopheles They've chewed hard food, and yet Why launch into oratory too? From the cradle to the bier, Hot‐tempered: you exaggerate as well. (1735) Not one has ever digested it! Any bit of paper's just as good. Trust one of us, this Whole thing (1780) And you can sign it with a drop of blood. Was only made for a god's delight!

Faust In eternal splendour he is dwelling, If it will satisfy you, and it should, He placed us in the darkness quite, And only gave you day and night. Then let's complete the farce in full.

Mephistopheles Faust But, I will! (1785) Blood is a quite special fluid. (1740)

Faust Mephistopheles Have no fear I'll break this pact! That's good to hear! The extreme I can promise you: it is Yet I've a fear, just the one: All the power my efforts can extract. Time is short, and art is long. I've puffed myself up so highly I think you need instruction. I belong in your ranks now. (1745) Join forces with a poet: use poetry, The mighty Spirit scorns me Let him roam in imagination, (1790) And Nature shuts me out. You'll gain every noble quality The thread of thought has turned to dust, From your honorary occupation, Knowledge fills me with disgust. The lion's brave attitude Let the depths of sensuality (1750) The wild stag's swiftness, Satisfy my burning passion! The Italian's fiery blood, (1795) And, its impenetrable mask on, The North's persistence. Let every marvel be prepared for me! Let him find the mysterious Let's plunge into time's torrent, Meeting of generous and devious, Into the whirlpools of event! (1755) While you, with passions young and hot, Then let joy, and distress, Fall in love, according to the plot. (1800) Frustration, and success, I'd like to see such a gentleman, among us, And I'd call him Mister Microcosmus. Follow each other, as well they can: Restless activity proves the man! Faust What am I then, if it's a flight too far, 21

For me to gain that human crown Come: give me your cap and gown. I yearn towards with every sense I own? (1805) The mask should look delicious. So!

Mephistopheles (He disguises himself.)

In the end, you are—what you are. Now I've lost what wit's my own! Set your hair in a thousand curlicues I want fifteen minutes with him, only: Place your feet in yard‐high shoes, Meanwhile get ready for our journey! (1850) You'll remain forever, what you are. (Faust exits.) Faust All the treasures of the human spirit (1810) Mephistopheles I feel that I've expended, uselessly. (In Faust's long gown.) And wherever, at the last, I sit, Reason and Science you despise, No new power flows, in me. Man's highest powers: now the lies I'm not a hair's breadth taller, as you see, Of the deceiving spirit must bind you And I'm no nearer to Infinity. (1815) With those magic arts that blind you, And I'll have you, totally—(1855) Mephistopheles Fate gave him such a spirit My dear sir, you see the thing It urges him ever onwards, wildly, Exactly as all men see it: why, And, in his hasty striving, he has leapt We must re‐order everything, Beyond all earth's ecstasies. Before the joys of life slip by. I'll drag him through raw life, (1860) Hang it! Hands and feet, belong to you, (1820) Through the meaningless and shallow, Certainly, a head, and a backside, I'll freeze him: stick to him: keep him ripe, Yet everything I use as new Frustrate his insatiable greed, allow Why is my ownership of it denied? Food and drink to drift before his eyes: When I can count on six stallions, In vain he'll beg for consummation, (1865) Isn't their horsepower mine to use? (1825) And if he weren't the devil's, why I drive behind, and am a proper man, He'd still go to his ruination! As though I'd twenty‐four legs, too. Look lively! Leave the senses be, END OF READING And plunge into the world with me! FIRST OF THREE SECTIONS I say to you that scholarly fellows (1830) Are like the cattle on an arid heath: Some evil spirit leads them round in circles,

While sweet green meadows lie beneath.

Faust How shall we begin then?

Mephistopheles From here, we'll first win free. What kind of a martyrs' hole can this be? (1835) What kind of a teacher of life is he, Who fills young minds with ennui? Let your neighbours do it, and go! Do you want to thresh straw forever? The best things you can ever know, (1840) You dare not tell the youngsters, ever. I hear one of them arriving, too!

Faust I've no desire to see him, though.

Mephistopheles The poor lad's waited hours for you. He mustn't go away un‐consoled. (1845) 22