Piero della Francesca, The Nativity (detail), c. 1470
Most soothing song, let me hear you once more and then let me dissolve in bitter tears! Happy the one who hears you! Happy the one who gazes on the rose whence you breathe, still untouched! Happy yes, but slow, slow would be my luck amid that sweet fragrance and that harmony.
(Transl. by M. Pastore Passaro)
Soavissimo canto oh pur t’oda una volta e poi mi stilli in lagrimoso pianto! Felice chi t’ascolta, felice chi risguarda, la rosa, onde tu spiri, ancor non colta! Felice sì, ma tarda fora la sorte mia fra quel sì dolce odore e l’armonia.
