Monday Music: Two from Regina Spektor

François Villon was a 15th century French poet who wrote in the vernacular from the margins of society, and who has influenced poets, playwrights, and musicians ever since. Arthur Rimbaud, Ezra Pound, Bob Dylan, and Leonard Cohen, to name just a few, were influenced by Villon. Here is a beautiful rendition of "The Prayer of François Villon," by the Russian bard singer Bulat Okudzhava, sung by Regina Spektor. (Scroll down to read English translation, but first, just listen to the beautiful music)

And speaking of Leonard Cohen, just when I was beginning to think that his wonderful song, "Hallelujah" was being sung too much, here comes Regina Spektor with a must hear performance.

The Prayer of Francois Villon

by Bulat Okudzhava

(English Translation)

While yet the Earth is revolving,

While yet the daylight is broad,

Lord, pray, give everyone

Whatever they have in want:

Give the wise one more brilliance,

The coward a horse to flee,

Give the happy some money…

And don't forget about me.

While yet the Earth is revolving –

Lord, yours is the power!

Give those fighting for power

To rule however much they desire;

Give relief to the generous

At least until the eve;

Bestow upon Cain repentance…

And don't forget about me.

I believe: you can do anything;

In your wisdom I trust,

Just as a killed soldier believes

That he is in the paradise;

Just as every ear believes

To the quiet words of yours,

Just as we ourselves also believe

When we know not what we do!

O Lord, oh the Almighty,

O God mine green of eyes!

While yet the Earth is revolving,

Taken itself by the surprise,

While yet it has in sufficiency

Both the time and the heat,

Give everybody a little…

And don't forget about me.

(from http://lyricstranslate.com/en/prayer-francois-villon-prayer-francois-villon.html#ixzz52qIhIOkH)
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