Reis Glorios

Schelmish's song 'Reis Glorios' is a beautiful homage to the medieval tradition of the alba, a genre of poetry and music that describes the parting of lovers at dawn. The lyrics, written in Old Occitan, evoke a sense of longing and devotion, capturing the emotional complexity of love and separation. The repeated phrase 'Et ades sera l'alba' (And soon it will be dawn) serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitable passage of time and the bittersweet nature of parting.

The song opens with a plea to a powerful deity, asking for protection and guidance for the singer's companion. This invocation sets a spiritual tone, suggesting that the love described is not just earthly but also has a divine dimension. The imagery of the 'verais lums e clartatz' (true light and clarity) and the 'estella creguda' (believed star) in the east further enhances this celestial connection, symbolizing hope and the promise of a new day.

Throughout the song, the singer addresses their 'bel companho' (dear companion), urging them to stay awake and be vigilant. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the vigilance required in love and relationships, where both partners must be attentive and present. The singer's prayers to God and the Virgin Mary for a 'lejal compania' (loyal companionship) underscore the importance of faith and loyalty in sustaining love. The final stanza reveals the singer's deep contentment and reluctance to see the dawn, as they hold and embrace their beloved, wishing that the night could last forever.

'Reis Glorios' is a rich tapestry of medieval themes, blending spiritual devotion with earthly love. It captures the essence of the alba tradition, where the dawn is both a symbol of hope and a harbinger of separation, making it a timeless reflection on the human experience of love and loss.