In der Palästra

As through the pipes the waters fell

Down to the bottom of the well

In listless apathy I gazed

At the cold waters as he bathed

I have beheld that scenery

And it's most sensual masculinity

Yet, disappointment, oh, can't you see?

Is still the cause and the cardinal symptom

Of my sick, sad reality

Silver equals chill, but that suits me just fine

I'm shyly sipping water, while he drinks whole jugs of wine

He likes all kinds of women, and I... I only hate men

He marvels at all things new to him

And I only wait

For all things in this sick world to end

The water pouring down his spine

Caressed his strong physique

Oh, so well-defined

Calm like a rock he stands

Oh, behold his body and soul

A friendly God must have built this man

To an all well-balanced whole

What sad bewilderment of this brought

Physical clearness, alas

Still so much abhorred

An ancient ghost awoke and fiercely arose in me

It was that old, savage, yet half-forgotten ideal of perfect neutrality

Silver equals chill, but that suits me just fine

I'm shyly sipping water, while he drinks whole jugs of wine

He likes all kinds of women, and I... I only hate men

He marvels at all things new to him

And I only wait

For all things in this sick world to end

I somewhat envy this naturally beautiful man

He never knew or encountered the hatred and shame that I bear

The doubt, the cloak of disgust and the all-devouring dread

And if I told him about it

He might only shake his head

With kindly amused, melodious laughter

He then would perhaps merely smile

At my, oh, so stupid silliness

And the beast that is raging inside