È la solita storia – L’arlesiana

It’s the old story of the shepherd...
The poor boy that wanted

To recount it

And he fell asleep

There is oblivion in sleep.

How I envy him!

I would like to sleep like that as well,

To at least find oblivion in sleep!

I am looking only for peace.

I would like to be able to forget it all!

But every effort is in vain.

I have always before me

Her sweet countenance.

Peace is only taken from me.

Why must I suffer so?

Her! She is always speaking to my heart!

Irresistible vision, leave me!

You hurt me so badly! Alas!

Jose Carreras sings Federico's lament from Cilea's L'arlesiana.

Colon, 1987.