I wish I were as young as you, the ones, looking so nice,
I wonder what has made you think you’re not so loved and bright,
I wish I were as young as you, you, looking from these photographs,
You, thinking all’s in vain – you, thinking all is vice.

I wish I were as young as you, the ones who’re thinking life
Has dealt you blow – the first love’s passed, fulfillment not your due.
I wish I were as young as you to tell you what is nice,
Life’s beautiful for you, my dears, because you’re young and bright.

I wish I were as young as you, young people gathered thus,
You, so enchanted with first love, don’t think it’s only one,
I wish I were as young as you, to tell you, cheer up and try,
Your worries seem so childish ones, don’t think of life as past.

I wish I were as young as you, you, beautiful and full of life,
All in your life is new, so hard to bear, understand,
I wish I were as young as you, you looking from these photographs,
I wish you knew how much depends on first steps in your life.

Young people, cheer up, stand right, remember life is not that hard,
You have it all in front – great span – just make it right and dare.
The feelings you are here to find, the faces you are here to love,
The love you are so eager to find, will duly come when you expect them less.