Erlkönig

Who rides so late through night and wind?
It is the father with his child
He has the boy in his arms
He holds him securely, he keeps him warm

My son, why do you hide your face in fear?
Father, don't you see the Erlking?
The alder king with crown and tail?
My son, it is a streak of fog

Dear child, come, go with me!
I play beautiful games with you
Some colorful flowers are on the beach
My mother has many golden garments

My father, my father, and do you not hear
What does the alder king quietly promise me?
Be calm, stay calm, my child
The wind rustles in dry leaves

Will you come with me, fine boy?
My daughters shall wait for you beautifully
My daughters lead the nightly parade
And rock and dance and sing you
They rock and dance and sing you

My father, my father, and don’t you see there
Erlking's daughters in the dark place?
My son, my son, I see it clearly
The old willows seem so grey

I love you, I am attracted by your beautiful figure
And if you are not willing, I will use force
My father, my father, now he touches me
Erlkönig has caused me pain

The father is terrified, he rides quickly
He holds the groaning child in his arms
Reached the farm with difficulty
In his arms the child was dead