"Air Vif," song four of the song cycle Airs Chantés by Francis Poulenc. Written in 1927 set to the poetry of Jean Moréas. Performed in my 2014 Bachelor of Music recital, accompanied by Michael McGushin. Translations below the break.
Air Vif (Lively Song):
The treasure of the orchard, and the festive garden,
The flowers of the field, of the wood, burst with pleasure,
Alas! Alas, above their heads the wind raises its voice.
But you, Noble Ocean,
Cannot be ravaged by a storm’s assault.
Certainly, having so much dignity,
When you lament, you lose yourself in daydreams.
