Employ.

A SONG in OCTOBER

Clouds gather, treetops toss and sway;

But pour us wine, an old one!

That we may turn this dreary day

To golden; yes, to golden!

What if the storm outside destroy

Alike Christian and heathen?

Nature must sweep the old away

To bring on a new season.

What if some aching dread we feel?

Lift glasses, all, and ring them!

True hearts, we know, will never quail

Whatever fortune brings them!

Clouds gather, treetops toss and sway;

But pour us wine, an old one!

That we may turn this dreary day

To golden, yes, to golden!

Autumn has come, but never fear,

Wait but a little while yet,

Spring will be here, the skies will clear,

And fields stand deep in violets.

The heavenly blue of fresh new days

Oh, friend, you must employ them

Before they pass away. Be brave!
Enjoy them; oh, enjoy them!

Theodor Storm