There sat I, a faded being, ...

There sat I, a faded being, under faded leaves.
There sat I, a faded being, under faded leaves.

Quotes from the same author

Start with what is right rather than what is acceptable.
Youth is happy because it has the ability to see beauty. Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.
German is my mother tongue and as such more natural to me, but I consider Czech much more affectionate, which is why your letter removes several uncertainties; I see you more clearly, the movements of your body, your hands, so quick, so resolute, it’s almost like a meeting.
The history of the world, as it is written and handed down by word of mouth, often fails us completely; but man's intuitive capacity, though it often misleads, does lead, does not ever abandon one.
Anybody who preserves the ability to recognize beauty will never get old.