This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Humor say what makst thou heere
Staff Notation • Secular, Madrigals
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4 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Humor say what makst thou heere by John Dowland — Lyrics
1st Voice:
Humour, say what mak'st thou here
In the presence of a queen?
2nd Voice:
Princes hold conceit most dear,
All conceit in humour seen.
1st Voice:
Thou art a heavy laden mood.
2nd Voice:
Humour is Invention's food.
Chorus:
But never humour yet was true,
But that which only pleaseth you.
1st Voice:
O I am as heavy as earth,
Say then, who is Humour now?
2nd Voice:
I am now inclined to mirth,
Read full lyrics
About Humor say what makst thou heere
John Dowland’s madrigal Humor say what makst thou heere is a witty debate between an individual and humour itself, before a queen. The text playfully explores whether humour is a frivolous distraction or a vital ingredient for invention and wit. It questions the nature of humour, its truthfulness, and its relationship to a monarch’s pleasure, ultimately concluding that only humour which pleases the queen is deemed true. This piece is written for voices in alternation, from SSATB to SATTB, showcasing Dowland's skill in creating intricate vocal textures within the secular madrigal tradition.
