Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1614

Publication Date

:

1614

Average_duration

:

2:34

"I shame at mine unworthiness" is a lute song composed by John Dowland, a prominent English Renaissance composer and lutenist. The song was likely composed in the early 17th century, although the exact date is unknown. The song is a part of Dowland's collection of lute songs, which were published in 1603 under the title "The First Booke of Songes or Ayres." The collection contains 21 songs, including "I shame at mine unworthiness." "I shame at mine unworthiness" is a melancholic song that features Dowland's signature use of chromaticism and dissonance. The song is written in the key of G minor and has a slow, mournful tempo. The song is divided into three distinct sections, or movements. The first movement features a simple, repetitive melody that is accompanied by a descending bass line. The second movement is more complex, with intricate lute accompaniment and a more varied melody. The final movement returns to the simplicity of the first, with a repeated melody and descending bass line. The lyrics of "I shame at mine unworthiness" express the speaker's feelings of unworthiness and shame in the face of his beloved's beauty and perfection. The song is a typical example of Dowland's melancholic and introspective style, which was popular during the Renaissance period. Overall, "I shame at mine unworthiness" is a beautiful and haunting example of Dowland's lute songs. Its melancholic melody and introspective lyrics make it a timeless piece of music that continues to be performed and enjoyed today.

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