Summary

The Erlking begins with a detailed description of the forest. Through the author's words, the reader can almost see the light peaking through the tall tress to reach the forest floor. It is autumn and the trees are bare of most of their leaves. The ground is wet, a testament to the fact that it has rained recently.

The author is describing how the woods completely enclose you as soon as you step in. As the author walks through the forest, she explains the sights, sounds and smells of her surroundings in detail. It grows colder and it is explained that there is now ice forming on the small stream.

The author travels deeper and deeper into the forest and she hears a bird's song. It reminds her of her childhood as a young girl, the author first identifying herself as...