From Belshazzar, HWV 61, Act I
Composer |
George Frideric Handel |
|---|---|
Key |
g minor |
Meter |
4/4 |
Tempo |
Andante |
English text |
|---|
Nitocris |
O dearer than my life, forbear! |
Profane not, O my son, |
With impious rites Jehovah’s Name. |
Remember what His arm has done, |
The earth contains not half his fame: |
Remember, and his vengeance fear! |
Belshazzar |
O queen, this hateful theme forbear! |
Join not against your son |
With captive slaves, your country’s foes. |
Remember what our gods have done |
To those who durst their pow’r oppose. |
Remember, and their vengeance fear. |
Nitocris |
Alas! Then must I see my son |
Headlong to sure destruction run? |
Belshazzar |
Not to destruction but delight |
I fly, and all once more invite |
To reign with me this happy night. |
Nitocris |
O dearer than my life… |
Opera Stanford |
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