Poet: William Blake (1757-1827)
Source: Songs and Proverbs of William Blake
Date of Composition: 1965 (Apr. 6)
Publication: Faber, 1965
Voice Difficulty Level: Difficult
Subject: A tale of neglectful parents.
Range: C4 – F#5
Tessitura: F#4 – D5
Tempo: Rather slow, cold; 6/8
Duration: 02:21
Vocal Characteristics: Pointillistic, 12-tone, exposed melody; high-lying phrases for baritone; low dynamic levels throughout;
Piano Difficulty Level: Difficult
Accompaniment Characteristics: Both hands in treble clef; rhythmically complex; quintuplets; 32nd notes; flourishes with varying rhythmic figures; septulets between hands