This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
I saw my lady weepe
Staff Notation • Secular, Lute songs
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3 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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I saw my lady weepe by John Dowland — Lyrics
I saw my lady weep,
And Sorrow proud to be advanced so,
In those fair eyes where all perfections keep,
Her face was full of woe;
But such a woe (believe me) as wins more hearts,
Than Mirth can do with her enticing parts.
Sorrow was there made fair,
And Passion wise, tears a delightful thing,
Silence beyond all speech a wisdom rare,
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About I saw my lady weepe
John Dowland was a master of the English lute song, and I saw my lady weep is a fine example of his output. This setting for two voices, soprano and bass, explores the complex emotions of sorrow and love. The text describes a lady weeping, yet her sadness is so beautifully expressed that it draws the singer's heart into both grief and adoration. Dowland captures the poignant contrast between outward woe and inner beauty, suggesting that such profound sadness can be more captivating than simple mirth. The piece ultimately advises the lady to cease her grieving, as excessive sorrow can be detrimental to her beauty and well-being, creating a powerful and moving emotional arc.
