TWO SONGS BY STEFAN WITWICKI (1801-1847)
SET TO MUSIC BY FRYDERYK CHOPIN (1810-1849)
Translation* from the Polish by Wilbur Skeels (2003)
(see octavo CQ2316)

The Messenger (Pose/l) Winter days are waning, Dew bedecks the hollow, Homeward you are winging, Our most faithful swallow. Now the days are longer, Spring returns with you. Singer from afar, We welcome you anew. Stay and make you home here, Make our roof your nest, Eat the grain we put there, Weary traveller rest. What is it you're seeking, With black eyes so clever? Do not be so merry, For my love's gone for ever! She has left the village, Left me for another; At the holy way shrine Stands her weeping mother. Tell me, swallow, tell me, Have you seen my darling? Is she well and happy, Or is she repining?

Spring (Wiosna) Sparkling dewdrops glisten, Streamlet water splashing, In the heather, listen, Cowbells gently clashing. In the meadow's elegance Every view is alluring; Flowers spread their fragrance, Every bush is blooming. Little flock, go wander While I play my sweet song; At the rock o'er yonder, To myself I'll sing along. Quiet place and lonely, Pleasant contemplation; Yet my heart can only Weep with desolation. Teardrops on my face mark The river in me rising; High above a skylark Echoes my reprising; Spreads his wings and soars there Almost out of sight, Higher, higher, higher, Clouds conceal his flight. Over stream and and field long Since his notes are ringing; With them my heart's sad song Heavenward is winging!

* © Copyright, Cantus Quercus Press, 2003. All rights reserved.

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