1. Eight years of joy possessed my heart,
Eight long years of hardship and smart.

2. Some rules I obeyed, some I defied,
Some were harmful, some were my guide.

3. I gained only patience for every woe,
Knowledge of anguish, and its steady flow.

4. I learned that joy has a fickle heart;
Its nature is not to persevere or last.

5. Though the earth were emptied of those I love
And cherish, my love would still hold fast.

6. But who deserves such constant affection?
For him I would give my life; such is my predilection.