Translation
Perched on the branch of a tree
Was a nightingale sad and lonely
"The night has drawn near", He was thinking
"I passed the day in flying around and feeding
How can I reach up to the nest
Darkness has enveloped everything"?
Hearing the nightingale wailing thus
A glow-worm lurking nearby spoke thus
"With my heart and soul ready to help I am
Though only an insignificant insect I am
Never mind if the night is dark
I shall shed light if the way is dark
God has bestowed a torch on me
He has given a shining lamp to me
The good in the world only those are
Ready to be useful to others who are
Explanatory Notes
1. William Cowper (1731-1800)- He was an English poet and letter
writer. Quiet, reflective verse and hymns were his speciality. These attributes brought a
new spirit into English poetry.