I hear within my heart of hearts
A trembling tone of grief that sings
Like melancholy cello strings,
Then softly, meltingly departs.

The cello feels a sharper pain
Whene'er the string is drawn more taut,
And is with sadder music fraught
Each time the peg is turned again.

The Player's grasp hurts too, when He
Is fain more lovely tunes to make.—
Ah God! and if the string shall break,
My soul will leap forth and be free!