Benjamin Britten - A Tragic Story

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There liv'd a sage in days of yore
And he a handsome pigtail wore
But wonder'd much and sorrow'd more
Because it hung behind him

He mus'd upon this curious case
And swore he'd change the pigtail's place
And have it hanging at his face
Not dangling there behind him

Says he, "The mystery I've found, --
I'll turn me round," --
He turn'd round
But still it hung behind him

Then round and round, and out and in
All day the puzzled sage did spin;
In vain -- it matter'd not a pin --
The pigtail hung behind him

And right and left, and round about
And up and down, and in and out
He turn'd, but still the pigtail stout
Hung steadily behind him

And though his efforts never slack
And though he twist, and twirl, and take
Alas, still faithful to his back
The pigtail hangs behind him

Release Date: January 01, 1935

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The meaning of the song

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"A Tragic Story" by Benjamin Britten is a whimsical and lighthearted song that tells the tale of a sage who is perplexed by his pigtail that always hangs behind him. The sage tries in vain to change the position of his pigtail, but no matter how much he twists and turns, it remains steadfastly behind him. The song is filled with playful imagery and clever wordplay, making it a charming and entertaining piece to listen to. Despite the sage's efforts, the pigtail's stubbornness becomes a comical and endearing aspect of this delightful musical story.

Biography

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Benjamin Britten, born in 1913 in Suffolk, England, was a renowned composer of the 20th century, particularly known for his operas. He began his musical education at an early age and went on to study at the prestigious Royal College of Music. It was during his time at the college that he fell into the circle of poet W.H. Auden, who would become a significant influence on his work.

Although Britten left Auden's circle after a few years, he met the tenor Peter Pears, who would not only become his greatest musical interpreter but also his personal partner until Britten's death. The two collaborated on many projects together, with Pears often performing in Britten's operas and other compositions.

During World War II, Britten spent some time in America, where he continued to compose and gain recognition for his work. However, it was in 1945 that he truly leapt to prominence with the premiere of his opera Peter Grimes, which was met with critical acclaim.

Throughout his career, Britten continued to compose operas, including Albert Herring, Billy Budd, The Turn of the Screw, and Death in Venice, all of which solidified his reputation as one of the greatest opera composers of his time. In addition to his operatic works, Britten also wrote music for other venues, with notable successes including the Serenade for Tenor, Horn, and Strings; the Variations on a Theme by Frank Bridge; the Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra; and the War Requiem.

In recognition of his contributions to music, Britten was awarded a life peerage by the British crown shortly before his death in 1976. His legacy continues to live on through his timeless compositions, which are still performed and celebrated by musicians and audiences around the world.