Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1600

Publication Date

:

1600

Average_duration

:

1:58

John Dowland's "Mourn, mourn, day is with darkness fled" is a melancholic lute song that was composed in the late 16th century. The piece was first published in Dowland's "Second Book of Songs" in 1600. The song is written in the key of D minor and has a slow, mournful tempo. The piece is divided into three distinct movements. The first movement begins with a descending melody that sets the mournful tone of the piece. The lyrics describe the end of a day and the onset of darkness, which is a metaphor for the end of a relationship. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a descending chromatic line that adds to the melancholic mood. The second movement is more complex and features a more intricate melody. The lyrics describe the pain of separation and the longing for the return of a loved one. The melody is more ornate and features a number of trills and runs that add to the emotional intensity of the piece. The final movement returns to the simplicity of the first, with a descending melody that brings the piece to a close. The lyrics describe the finality of the separation and the hopelessness of the situation. The melody is haunting and lingers in the mind long after the piece has ended. Overall, "Mourn, mourn, day is with darkness fled" is a beautiful and poignant piece of music that captures the pain of lost love. Dowland's use of simple melodies and chromatic lines creates a sense of melancholy that is both powerful and moving. The piece remains a popular choice for lute players and singers alike, and is a testament to Dowland's skill as a composer.

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