What madrigal shall I sing to my love tonight
That he may think on me?
I sing his heart's fire and his strength, I sing his joy,
His gentle courtesy.
Can the forest ivy feel as I feel
For the oak she clasps so dearly?
Ah, this distance I cannot embrace
Oh, love, that you were near me
What madrigal shall I sing to my love tonight
And wish him by my side
Nor all my art nor all my strength shall conjure him
His passion and his pride
What folly here has captured me so
Brimful the empty chalice
So moved by beauty I must weep
My love, o bring me solace
What madrigal shall I sing to my love tonight
In prayer for his return
What gods may I entreat, what prayers, what arts employ
What patience must I learn?
My parting tears you kissed from my face
And wear love's token for me
Two hawks in spiral falling free
My love, in you I glory
Words and music by & © Talis Kimberley 15.7.1997