Composer

:

Henry VIII, King of England

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

1:08

"Alack, alack what shall I do" is a song composed by Henry VIII, King of England, in the early 16th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written during the early years of his reign, around 1509-1510. The song is a lament, expressing the king's sorrow and despair over the loss of his beloved wife, Catherine of Aragon, who had suffered a series of miscarriages and stillbirths. The song is written in a simple, plaintive style, with a melody that is easy to sing and remember. It consists of three verses, each with a refrain of "Alack, alack what shall I do?" The first verse describes the king's grief and loneliness, as he wanders through the halls of his palace, haunted by memories of his lost love. The second verse expresses his anger and frustration at the cruel fate that has robbed him of his happiness, and the third verse is a plea for divine intervention, asking God to ease his pain and bring him comfort. Despite its simplicity, "Alack, alack what shall I do" is a powerful and moving piece of music, reflecting the deep emotions of its composer. It is also notable for its historical significance, as one of the few surviving examples of music composed by a reigning monarch of England. The song was likely performed at court and may have been known to a wider audience, although it is unclear how widely it was disseminated or how it was received by listeners. Overall, "Alack, alack what shall I do" is a poignant and heartfelt expression of grief and loss, written by one of England's most famous and controversial kings. Its enduring popularity and historical significance make it a valuable piece of music for scholars and music lovers alike.

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