Bach Cantata Translations

BWV 209 - "Non sa che sia dolore"

Cantata - Farewell to a scholar called to Ansbach
1. Sinfonia 2. Recitativo S Non sa che sia dolore Chi dall' amico suo parte e non more. Il fanciullin' che plora e geme Ed allor che più ei teme, Vien la madre a consolar. Va dunque a cenni del cielo, Adempi or di Minerva il zelo.	1. Sinfonia 2. Recitative S He does not know what sorrow is who parts from his friend and does not die. The little child weeps and moans, and indeed, the more fearful he is, his mother comes to console him. Therefore, go and seek a sign from heaven, that you will now fulfill Minerva's purpose.
3. Aria S Parti pur e con dolore Lasci a noi dolente il core. La patria goderai, A dover la servirai; Varchi or di sponda in sponda, Propizi vedi il vento e l'onda.	3. Aria S Go then, and with grief leave to us our sorrowful hearts. You will delight your nation, As you will serve it with duty; Set sail now from shore to shore, you will find the winds and waves gracious.
4. Recitativo S Tuo saver al tempo e l'età constrasta, Virtù e valor solo a vincer basta; Ma chi gran ti farà più che non fusti Ansbaca, piena di tanti Augusti.	4. Recitative S Your knowledge contrasts with your age and years, strength and bravery alone are enough for victory; but greater than you were will you now be, Ansbach, favored by such august ones.
5. Aria S Ricetti gramezza e pavento, Qual nocchier, placato il vento Più non teme o si scolora, Ma contento in su la prora Va cantando in faccia al mar.	5. Aria S Suppressing grief and fear, The sailor, in quiet winds, no longer is fearful or pale, but happily upon his prow goes forth singing in the face of the sea.

©Pamela Dellal