In Uomini , in Soldati from Cosi Fan Tutte
December 13, 2008
Wolfgang Amadaeus Mozart
Translation
In men, in soldiers, to hope for fideltiy?
Don’t let anybody hear you, for pity’s sake!
All of them are made of the same paste;
the rustling leaves and inconstant breezes
have more stability than men.
Lying tears, fals glances, deceitful voices,
charms are their primary qualities.
They love us only for their own delight;
afterwards they despise us, deny us love;
there is no use asking a barbarian for mercy.
Let us repay, o women, with the same money
this evil kind of indiscreet men;
let us love at our leisure, for our vanity.
About the Aria
Taken from Act 1 in the 18th Century, Despina is a servant to two sisters who’s lovers have left to answer the call of duty. The Sisters are grieved and Despina tries to cheer them up telling them to think positively because even if they did die there are plenty more men to select.
