Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1612

Publication Date

:

1612

Average_duration

:

3:04

'Where sin, sore wounding' is a lute song composed by John Dowland, a prominent English Renaissance composer and lutenist. The song was composed in the early 17th century and was first published in Dowland's collection of lute songs, 'The Third and Last Booke of Songs or Aires' in 1603. The song is a melancholic lament that explores the themes of sin, guilt, and redemption. It is written in the key of G minor and consists of four verses, each with a repeating refrain. The melody is haunting and plaintive, with a slow and mournful tempo that reflects the somber mood of the lyrics. The first verse begins with the line "Where sin, sore wounding, blots the book of youth," which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The lyrics describe the pain and regret that come with the realization of one's own sinfulness and the desire for forgiveness and redemption. The refrain, "O let thy power, once more, prevail," expresses the hope that God's mercy and grace will overcome the weight of sin. The second verse continues the theme of sin and guilt, with the line "Where love, once kindled, leaves the heart in ruth." The lyrics suggest that the pain of lost love is a consequence of sin and that only through repentance and forgiveness can one find true love and happiness. The third verse shifts the focus to the idea of death and the afterlife, with the line "Where death, with sting, his fatal dart hath shot." The lyrics suggest that death is the ultimate consequence of sin and that only through faith and repentance can one hope for salvation. The final verse returns to the theme of sin and redemption, with the line "Where sin, sore wounding, blots the book of youth." The lyrics suggest that the only way to overcome the weight of sin is through faith and the grace of God. The refrain, "O let thy power, once more, prevail," is repeated, emphasizing the hope and faith in God's mercy and forgiveness. Overall, 'Where sin, sore wounding' is a powerful and poignant expression of the human experience of sin, guilt, and redemption. The haunting melody and somber lyrics capture the depth of emotion and longing for forgiveness that is at the heart of the Christian faith.

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