Walther von der Vogelweide (c. 1170 - c. 1230) is the greatest German lyric poet of the Middle Ages.
Besides writing poetry, he was also a knight, and a very opinionated one. He even opposed the Pope, arguing that the papal power shouldn’t interfere with secular life.
His poetry (about moral, love, politics) is very much topical even today.
Alas! Where have all the years gone?
Did I dream my life, or is it real?
What I always thought - was that something?
Then I’ve slept and don’t know it…
Now I’m awake, and I no longer know
What used to be familiar as my own hands:
People and places, where I was raised from childhood,
They are strangers to me, as if it were all lies.
Those who were my playmates are old and indolent.
Meadows are farmed, forests are felled,
If it were not for the water, which flows as ever before,
ah, then I’d believe that my misfortune is truly great.
Many no longer even greet me, who once knew me well.
The world is full of ingratitude everywhere.
When I think of the many glorious days,
They disappear, like ripples in the water -
Forever more - alas!
Image: His portrait in the Codex Manesse (Folio 124r)