Donna t'inganni

This secular Italian madrigal, composed by Benedetto Ferrari, is written for a solo soprano voice. The text is a passionate declaration of independence from a fickle lover. The singer asserts that they have learned from past experience that constancy is not to be found in their beloved. Despite the lover's potential for deception, the singer proclaims their own ability to feign affection if necessary, but ultimately declares their freedom from further emotional entanglement. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a garden where only thorns grow, symbolizing the pain of unrequited or deceptive love. The singer rejects such harmful offerings, preferring to reserve their affections for a more worthy recipient.