For SSAA Chorus, Piano and opt. Oboe
By Michael John Trotta
American poet Sara Teasdale (1884-1933) won the Pulitzer Prize for her 1917 collection of poems titled Love Songs. The text for this song is taken from "Barter," the first in this set of poems. Despite the poet's history of poor emotional and physical health, the text captures a hopeful attitude that foreshadows the spirit of optimism that was the precursor to the Roaring Twenties.
A rhythmic piano part is the foundation for a captivatingly lyric melody that gently unfolds throughout the piece. The setting begins with the simplicity of a unison vocal line that gradually expands as the piece explores the complexities of the wonder of everyday life. Subtle text painting captures the poet's desire to seek refuge in the beauty that surrounded her.