Prometheus. This unusual ode was written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in 1772-74. It is a visceral rejection of authoritanianism; a brash plea for humans to think for themselves, framed in Greek mythology.
Die letzte Epiphanie. This poem was written by Werner Bergengruen in 1944 and published as part of the collection “Dies Irae” in 1945. It was allegedly recited at the Eichmann trial in Jerusalem in 1962. One might surmise why.
An Sibylle Mertens. This poem was written by Adele Schopenhauer in Weimar in 1829. It was addressed to Sibylle Mertens-Schaaffhausen, a friend and lover of hers with whom she remained until her death.
Die Füße im Feuer. This ballad was written by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer and published in 1882. It is set in France during the days of religious persecution and depicts personal guilt in the form of psychological horror.
german poetry 