This edition was prepared by Richard Mix — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Afraid, alas, and why so suddenly?
Staff Notation • Sacred, Christmas
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Afraid, alas, and why so suddenly? by Anonymous — Lyrics
Afraid, alas, and why so suddenly?
Why so dismayed? Why should she heavy be,
Or otherwise evil apaid? Afraid.
Sith it concluded was in the Trinity
That the Son of God should make us all free,
Though death be bewailed by ways of pity,
Yet when our Lady’s Son was slain,
Our soules comfort came again:
Therefore though death be never so sore,
Now, blessed Lady, weep no more: Afraid.
Methinketh in my reason thou ought to be glad,
When Jews with their treason to death thy Son lad:
They beat him for our guilt, though he sin no had;
Thy Son was doughty, the fiend was adrad:
To joy of every worldes wight,
So now is known thy Sonnes might:
Therefore though death be never so sore,
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About Afraid, alas, and why so suddenly?
This English carol for SATB voices is a devotional reflection on the Annunciation, meditating on Mary's understandable fear at the angel's message, but urging her to rejoice. The text reminds the listener that Christ's death, though sorrowful, ultimately brought salvation and comfort. The composer, anonymous, weaves a comforting message throughout the piece, emphasizing that Christ's sacrifice has overcome death and freed humanity. The carol's structure moves from Mary's initial apprehension to a powerful expression of Christian hope and joy, making it a fitting piece for Christmas services or devotional concerts.
