Talk:Anvil Chorus
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[edit] Translation
The translation of the lyrics is rather liberal. Is this based on a prior English translation? If not, could someone post a closer translation, please? The relevant part of the libretto is here. Thanks, --MarkSweep 23:23, 6 Mar 2005 (UTC)
Here is a more accurate translation, side by side with the orignal.
Also see Here for English, German, and French translations. As far as I can tell these are much closer to the original Italian than what is found in the wiki.
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Both the translation on the main page and the Rutter translation linked above are singing translations. That is, the English words are intended to be sung to the same tune as the Italian text. Singing translations are not intended to be word-for-word translations of the original. They are generally written with the goal of preserving the general meaning of the original, but tempered by the additional needs to fit syllables into the right rhythm and have verse which is generally attractive.
I would agree that the Rutter translation is a more attractive singing translation. It is not, however, a "more accurate" translation. The one on the main page is closer in meaning to the original Italian.
(The other link on this page, promising English, German and French, is currently not working for me.) Iglew 20:12, 4 September 2006 (UTC)
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This translation is from an EMI recording of the opera dated 1958. Translation is by William Weaver.
Gypsies
See! the heavens' great vault
removes its gloomy, night-time tatters;
it seems like a widow that takes off at last
the dark clothes that enfold her
To work! To work! At it! Hammer!
Who brightens the gypsy man's days?
The gypsy maid.
(To the women pausing in their work)
Pour me a draught; strength and courage
the body and soul draw from drinking.
Oh, look, look! A ray of the sun
sparkles in my (your) glass!
To work! To work!
Who brightens the gypsy mans' days?
The gypsy maid!
(As Azucena is singing, the gypsies gather around her.)
--80.229.175.188 21:19, 30 January 2007 (UTC)
