少年维特的烦恼 英文版 The Sorrows of Young Werther
歌德 Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
AUGUST 22.
What a misfortune, Wilhelm! My active spirits have degeneratedinto contented indolence. I cannot be idle, and yet I am unableto set to work. I cannot think: I have no longer any feeling forthe beauties of nature, and books are distasteful to me. Once wegive ourselves up, we are totally lost. Many a time and oft Iwish I were a common labourer; that, awakening in the morning, Imight have but one prospect, one pursuit, one hope, for the daywhich has dawned. I often envy Albert when I see him buried in aheap of papers and parchments, and I fancy I should be happy wereI in his place. Often impressed with this feeling I have been onthe point of writing to you and to the minister, for the appointmentat the embassy, which you think I might obtain. I believe I mightprocure it. The minister has long shown a regard for me, and hasfrequently urged me to seek employment. It is the business of anhour only. Now and then the fable of the horse recurs to me.Weary of liberty, he suffered himself to be saddled and bridled,and was ridden to death for his pains. I know not what to determineupon. For is not this anxiety for change the consequence of thatrestless spirit which would pursue me equally in every situationof life?