Hugo Zuckermann (1881–1914)

THERE in the meadow-land

Two jackdaws cry—

Is it on Danube’s strand

I’ll have to lie?

Or in a Polish grave?

Before my soul shall fly,

I’ll fight a rider brave.

There on the field I see

Two ravens scurry.

Shall I the first one be

Whom they must bury?

What’s that to me!

Many hundred thousands hurry

In Austria’s cavalry.

There in the evening breath

Hover two crows:

When comes the reaper Death

Who mows and mows?

We’re not afraid!

If but our banner blows

Over Belgrade!