David Conte

i carry your heart

E. E. Cummings' poem i carry your heart could be read as a marriage vow, a joyous ode to a newborn, or even a eulogy to a lost love…it is adaptable to all kinds and levels of love. This setting is grounded in a steady quarter note ostinato which suggests the gentle tolling of bells, expressing respect and affection, both dignified and joyous in character. The accompaniment becomes subtly more animated at the poem's two climaxes. The work ends with serene confidence, as the poet affirms the undeviating constancy and resolve of love. Duration: 5:30