Composer

:

Codex Chantilly Anonymous

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Ballade

Compose Date

:

1395 - 1400

Average_duration

:

2:38

"De quanqu'on peut" is a medieval French song composed by an anonymous composer, found in the Codex Chantilly, a manuscript containing a collection of French secular music from the 14th century. The song is believed to have been composed in the late 14th century, and its premiere is unknown. The song is written in the form of a virelai, a popular form of French secular song in the Middle Ages. It consists of three stanzas, each followed by a refrain. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a range of only five notes. The lyrics are in Old French and tell the story of a lover who is willing to do anything for his beloved, even if it means risking his life. The first stanza begins with the lover declaring his love for his beloved, saying that he will do anything for her. The refrain, "De quanqu'on peut, on doit amer" (One should love with all one's might), emphasizes the intensity of the lover's feelings. The second stanza describes the lover's willingness to face any danger for his beloved, even if it means going to war. The refrain is repeated, emphasizing the lover's determination. The third stanza describes the lover's despair at being separated from his beloved, and his longing to be reunited with her. The refrain is repeated once more, emphasizing the lover's unwavering love. Overall, "De quanqu'on peut" is a simple but powerful expression of love and devotion, typical of the virelai form. Its repetitive melody and lyrics make it easy to remember and sing, and it remains a popular example of medieval French secular music to this day.

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