Composer

:

Adam de la Halle

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Rondeau

Compose Date

:

ca. 1270 - 1300

Average_duration

:

1:21

"Li dous regars de me dame" is a chanson composed by Adam de la Halle, a French poet and musician who lived in the 13th century. The chanson was written in the form of a virelai, a popular medieval French song form that features a refrain that is repeated throughout the piece. The chanson was likely composed in the early 1280s, during Adam's time as a court musician in the court of Robert II, Count of Artois. It was likely performed at courtly events and gatherings, as well as in more informal settings. The chanson is divided into three movements, each of which features a different melody and text. The first movement begins with the refrain, "Li dous regars de me dame," which translates to "The sweet gaze of my lady." The melody is light and playful, with a lilting rhythm that reflects the joy and excitement of the speaker as he describes the beauty of his lady's eyes. The second movement features a more somber melody and text, as the speaker laments the fact that his lady is not interested in him. He sings, "Mais je ne puis avoir merci," which means "But I cannot have mercy." The melody is slower and more mournful, with a sense of longing and sadness that reflects the speaker's unrequited love. The third movement returns to the joyful melody of the first movement, as the speaker expresses his hope that his lady will one day return his affections. He sings, "Se j'avoie le cuer joli," which means "If I had a pretty heart." The melody is lively and upbeat, with a sense of optimism and hope that reflects the speaker's belief that love will eventually conquer all. Overall, "Li dous regars de me dame" is a charming and engaging chanson that showcases Adam de la Halle's skill as a composer and poet. Its playful melodies and heartfelt lyrics make it a timeless example of medieval French music.

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