1993

Phoenix

Composed by Frank Lewin
"Phoenix" is a setting of "Metric Figure" by William Carlos Williams. The score is inscribed "Consecration of the House -- To E.A. from E.F." It was written for friends (Evelyn and Arthur Krosnick) who had rebuilt their one-of-a-kind house after it burned down. E.F. represents the composer and his wife Elsbeth. The setting is for high voice and piano. Publisher: Parga Music, contact miriamlewin@lavinegroup.com

Text

Phoenix (Metric Figure)
by William Carlos Williams

There is a bird in the poplars—t
It is the sun!t
The leaves are little yellow fisht
Swimming in the river;t
The bird skims above them—t
Day is on his wings.t
Phoenix!t
It is he that is makingt
The great gleam among the poplars.t
It is his singing
Outshines the noiset
Of leaves clashing in the wind.