This edition was prepared by John Henry Fowler — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Darkening night the land doth cover
Staff Notation • Sacred, Anthems
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Darkening night the land doth cover by Louis Bourgeois — Lyrics
Dark'ning night the land doth cover;
Day is over:
We give thanks, O Thou most High,
While with wonted hymn we adore Thee,
And implore Thee,
For the light that doth not die
Like a day our short life hasteth:
Soon it wasteth:
Cometh surely its sad eve:
O do Thou that eve enlighten,
Save and brighten:
Nor old age of joy bereave:
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About Darkening night the land doth cover
Louis Bourgeois, a significant composer of the Reformation, is known for his contributions to congregational song. This SATB anthem, set to an English text, reflects the sacred tradition of the era. The lyrics express a profound meditation on the passage of life, from the day's end to the coming of night, and ultimately to the twilight of life and the hope of eternal day. The text moves from giving thanks for the light of day to imploring divine illumination through life's inevitable darkness, seeking peace and redemption. It is a prayer for comfort and guidance, culminating in a plea for a peaceful death and the promise of everlasting light.
