The Works of J. W. von Goethe/Volume 9/Love's Hour-Glass
LOVE'S HOUR-GLASS.
Eros! wherefore do I see thee, with the glass in either hand?
Fickle god! with double measure wouldst thou count the shifting sand?
"This one flows for parted lovers—slowly drops each tiny bead—
That is for the days of dalliance, and it melts with golden speed."