3. The merry face of spring



The merry face of spring

turns to the world,

sharp winter

now flees, vanquished;

bedecked in various colours

Flora reigns,

the harmony of the woods

praises her in song. Ah!



Lying in Flora's lap

Phoebus once more

smiles, now covered

in many-coloured flowers,

Zephyr breathes nectar-

scented breezes.

Let us rush to compete

for love's prize. Ah!



In harp-like tones sings

the sweet nightingale,

with many flowers

the joyous meadows are laughing,

a flock of birds rises up

through the pleasant forests,

the chorus of maidens

already promises a thousand joys. Ah!



4. The sun warms everything



The sun warms everything,

pure and gentle,

once again it reveals to the world

April's face,

the soul of man

is urged towards love

and joys are governed

by the boy-god.



All this rebirth

in spring's festivity

and spring's power

bids us to rejoice;

it shows us paths we know well,

and in your springtime

it is true and right

to keep what is yours.



Love me faithfully!

See how I am faithful:

with all my heart

and with all my soul,

I am with you

even when I am far away.

Whosoever loves this much

turns on the wheel.



5. Behold, the pleasant spring



Behold, the pleasant

and longed-for

spring brings back joyfulness,

violet flowers

fill the meadows,

the sun brightens everything,

sadness is now at an end!

Summer returns,

now withdraw

the rigours of winter. Ah!



Now melts

and disappears

ice, snow and the rest,

winter flees,

and now spring sucks at summer's breast:

a wretched soul is he

who does not live

or lust

under summer's rule. Ah!



They glory

and rejoice

in honeyed sweetness

who strive

to make use of

Cupid's prize;

at Venus' command

let us glory

and rejoice

in being Paris' equals. Ah