En l'eau, en l'eau

Jean Le Gendre’s En l'eau, en l'eau is a secular French chanson for four voices (ATTB). The text addresses someone suffering from the pains of love, suggesting a swift plunge into water as a remedy. The lyrics humorously acknowledge that this is a common predicament, with many others also wasting their time in pursuit of unattainable desires. This Renaissance part-song offers a lighthearted perspective on unrequited affection and the follies of the heart, making it a charming choice for a chamber choir seeking engaging French repertoire. The intricate vocal interplay typical of the genre would allow for expressive performances that capture the text's witty melancholy.