Ik zeg adieu

This secular part-song in Flemish, sung by three female voices (SSA), captures a poignant farewell. The words express a lover's deep sorrow at parting, promising eternal devotion and longing for eventual reunion. The text moves from the personal anguish of separation to a broader farewell, addressing a 'fair city' and a 'maiden vessel' where joy was once shared. The composer's setting reflects the emotional weight of the lyrics, exploring themes of constancy and the pain inflicted by envious 'bitter foes'. It is a richly expressive Renaissance secular song that speaks of enduring love and the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye, even to places that hold happy memories.