Media Vita

Anúna's 'Media Vita' is a hauntingly beautiful choral piece that delves into the profound themes of life, death, and divine salvation. The lyrics, sung in Latin, translate to 'In the midst of life, we are in death,' a phrase that immediately sets a somber and reflective tone. This line, originating from a medieval antiphon, encapsulates the fragile nature of human existence and the ever-present shadow of mortality. The song's plea for divine assistance, 'Quem quaerimus ad iutorem nihi site domine,' translates to 'Whom shall we seek as a helper but you, Lord?' This line underscores the human reliance on divine intervention in the face of life's uncertainties and the inevitability of death.

The repeated invocation of 'Sancte Deus, sancte fortis, sancte misericor salvator'—'Holy God, holy strong one, holy and merciful savior'—serves as a powerful appeal for mercy and salvation. The repetition emphasizes the desperation and earnestness of the plea, reflecting a deep-seated fear of being abandoned to the 'bitter pains of death.' This invocation is a reminder of the medieval Christian belief in the omnipotence and benevolence of God, who alone can offer solace and deliverance from the trials of mortal life.

The song also references the faith of the ancestors, 'In te speraverunt patres nostri, speraverunt et liberasti eos,' meaning 'In you our fathers hoped; they hoped, and you delivered them.' This line connects the present generation's struggles with those of the past, suggesting a continuity of faith and divine intervention across time. It reassures the listener that just as God delivered their forebears, He will also provide salvation to the current supplicants. Anúna's ethereal harmonies and the solemnity of the Latin text create a meditative atmosphere, inviting listeners to reflect on their own mortality and the hope for divine mercy.