She Casts a Tender Glance

She casts a tender glance— A long-familiar lure… Don't think that you're the fisherman, Don't make the same mistake before.

In her, the fragrance of a garden blooms, And you thought: "What a prize I've won!" Thus the nibble starts its bloom, Thus hell enters a man's sun.

Her lips and velvet-flowing speech Like wine—rob reason from its throne. You only meant to sit and reach For honey—punished to the bone.

You cannot slip the hook away. Yes, you will leave her bed one morning, But peace will flee without returning, Though you hide all trace and sway.

You cannot look into her eyes As once you did—serene and steady, You cannot tell her, calm and ready: "I love you!"—with such tender sighs.

You cannot silence conscience's call, Though you grow ascetic, stern, and cold, Before her face, before God's hall, Your guilt cannot be bought or sold.

So for a half-hour's brief delight You cast your life from cliffs so steep. Sin never comes without its price… Remember what I say and keep:

An unexploded mine at rest Is dangerous to store below, Awaiting the inevitable crest— To slowly lose your mind's glow.

Here there's no time to hesitate, To stop the terrible explosion. Fall before God and contemplate— He wants to grant you his absolution.

The Lord's own love can heal the soul, Whatever evils you have done, Go quickly, make yourself whole— Go forth and sin no more—you're done.