Composer

:

Thomas Campion

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:04

"Beauty Is But a Painted Hell" is a song composed by Thomas Campion, an English composer, poet, and physician. The song was composed in the early 17th century, during the Renaissance period, and was first published in 1613 in Campion's collection of songs titled "The Third and Fourth Booke of Ayres." The song is a part of the genre of English lute songs, which were popular during the Renaissance period. It is a solo song, accompanied by a lute or a keyboard instrument. The song is written in the key of G minor and has a slow tempo. "Beauty Is But a Painted Hell" has three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is slow and melancholic, with a mournful melody that reflects the theme of the song. The second movement is more lively and upbeat, with a faster tempo and a more cheerful melody. The third movement returns to the slow and mournful melody of the first movement, bringing the song to a somber conclusion. The lyrics of the song explore the theme of the fleeting nature of beauty and the pain that comes with it. The opening lines of the song, "Beauty is but a painted hell, aye me! / Aye me! / Aye me! / That fire, that's fed with sweet and bitter fancy," set the tone for the rest of the song. The lyrics go on to describe the pain and suffering that comes with loving someone who is beautiful but ultimately unattainable. Overall, "Beauty Is But a Painted Hell" is a beautiful and haunting song that captures the essence of the Renaissance period. Its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics make it a timeless piece of music that continues to be performed and enjoyed today.

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