Hermann Allmers

This is an English translation of a lovely poem by the German poet Hermann Allmers, "Through the fields of solitude," that I assisted with a bit. David B. Gosselin is the primary translator.

Jan 18, 2025

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Through the fields of solitude
by Hermann Allmers
set to music by Johannes Brahms
translation by David B. Gosselin with Michael R. Burch

Peacefully, I rest in the tall green grass
For a long time only gazing as I lie,
Caught in the endless hymn of crickets,
And encircled by a wonderful blue sky.

And the lovely white clouds floating across
The depths of the heavens are like silky lace;
I feel as though my soul has long since fled,
Softly drifting with them through eternal space.

This poem was set to music by the German composer Johannes Brahms in what has been called its “the most sublime incarnation.” A celebrated recording of the song was made in 1958 by the baritone Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau with Jörg Demus accompanying him on the piano.

Shannon Winestone

Jan 28, 2025Edited

This translation is a superlative example of what can be accomplished when poets collaborate with each other. I am genuinely in awe of the poem’s sublimity, and I can never only read it once. Bravo to Mike and David! On a side note, “Christina’s World” is the perfect painting to illustrate this wonderful poem.

5 replies by Michael R. Burch and others

Martin Mc Carthy

Even though it took both David Gosselin and you to do it, this translation of 'Through the fields of solitude' probably outdoes the Allmers' original German poem - or, at the very least, is equal to it. Good job, gentlemen!

1 reply by Michael R. Burch

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