Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Part Song

Compose Date

:

1597

Publication Date

:

1597

Average_duration

:

2:36

'Awake sweet love, thou art returned' is a lute song composed by John Dowland, an 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 First Booke of Songes or Ayres' in 1597. The song is written in the key of G major and consists of four verses, each with a refrain. The melody is simple and elegant, with a gentle and flowing rhythm that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. The lyrics are a celebration of love's return, with the speaker urging their lover to awaken and embrace the joy of their reunion. The song is divided into two main sections, with the first section consisting of the first two verses and the second section consisting of the final two verses. The refrain, "Awake, sweet love, thou art returned," is repeated after each verse, creating a sense of unity and continuity throughout the song. The first verse begins with the speaker addressing their lover, urging them to awaken and embrace the joy of their reunion. The second verse continues in a similar vein, with the speaker expressing their delight at the return of their beloved. The third verse takes a more melancholic turn, with the speaker lamenting the pain of separation and the uncertainty of love. However, the refrain provides a glimmer of hope, reminding the listener that love has returned and that all will be well. The final verse is a celebration of love's triumph over adversity, with the speaker declaring their love to be stronger than any obstacle. The refrain is repeated one final time, bringing the song to a satisfying conclusion. Overall, 'Awake sweet love, thou art returned' is a beautiful and timeless example of Dowland's skill as a composer and lyricist. Its simple melody and elegant lyrics capture the essence of love and the joy of reunion, making it a beloved classic of the Renaissance era.

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