There is a slender flame
a man feels but does not see;
it leaves me then returns
fleeing and pulling me.

When I drowse, it’s clear
it has no wish to bide,
and yet when I am dreaming
it stays close by my side.

– Get up, it says – at daybreak –
let fresh air in your home;
the universe around you
still wraps you in its dream.

And so, from such an ordinance,
o heart of mine sublime,
let us accept with patience
that we are still alive.