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This is a prose translation of Wagner's poem into modern English. It is not a poetic translation nor is it intended for singing. Wagner's stage directions are given complete in a literal translation. The English commentary is provided to help the reader form his or her own interpretation of the text. It draws attention to symbolism drawn upon by Wagner from religion and mythology, in both the western and eastern traditions; and it indicates some of the allusions made in the text to literature, spirituality and philosophy. Textual differences between the German text as it appears in Gesammelte Schriften und Dichtungen and in the score are indicated where they occur.