Despite Helen being in vacation mode she still manages to come up trumps and give us our weekly joy of SLS.
This week is “drink”. Never one to refuse a challenge, or a drink, I’ve chosen Ben Johnson’s 1616 poem “Song. To Celia.”
I know what you’re thinking. Has he gone mad? Truth is NO, I’ve always been this way!
If you read the Wikipedia page you will discover that I’m offering you the song Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes. It has been recorded by many singers but I’m giving you what I consider is the best, by Paul Robeson, with a vastly different one to compare.
I do hope you enjoy them!
Drink to me only with thine eyes, And I will pledge with mine; Or leave a kiss within the cup, And I’ll not ask for wine. The thirst that from the soul doth rise Doth ask a drink divine; But might I of Jove’s nectar sup, I would not change for thine. |
I sent thee late a rosy wreath, Not so much honoring thee As giving it a hope, that there It could not withered be. But thou thereon didst only breathe, And sent’st it back to me; Since when it grows, and smells, I swear, Not of itself, but thee. |
The alternative is by Laura Wright.
I think I like Paul’s version the best!
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Me too!
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Definitely not heard this one before Peter but what beautiful words 😊 x
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They’ve stood the test of time very well!
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Yes I think you’re right 😊
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I’m just home from a hard and cold days work, and I’m enjoying your music here Peter, I loved both versions, and they’re gone into my “Peter’s Playlist”. Thank you for sharing Peter
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A pleasure, as always Ivor!
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Love these! A classic, followed by a lovely interpretation. Very nice!😃
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So many singers have recorded this. Quite amazing!
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It’s a great song!
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A song I have always enjoyed listening to but it’s one of those that brings a tear to the eye, perhaps it’s because it such an old song and in some ways similar to this one that never fails to bring on the melancholy mood. Though truth be known, today is just one of those days.
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I can see him now, filling his pipe, getting ready to light it as soon as he finishes singing! (That makes me very nostalgic for my pipe, which I put down on 1 October 2000!)
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Oh, I love the pipe aroma. Put mine down last week!
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Paul Robeson’s voice gave me amazing chills!!!!
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No-one compares. I always wanted to sing “Old Man River” as he did – never managed it!!
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I have to youtube that one Peter. I have never heard this man before!!!
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Wow, such vastly different versions. I honestly liked them both pretty equally. The lyrics are beautiful. Thanks for sharing!
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