Requiem: II. Dies irae
Giuseppe Verdi Lyrics

The lyrics to Giuseppe Verdi's song "Requiem: II. Dies irae" are part of the Requiem Mass, a sacred composition that is typically performed in a funeral setting. The words "Dies irae" translate to "Day of Wrath" in English and set the tone for a dramatic and apocalyptic scene. The first stanza sets the stage for the day of reckoning, with the line "Dies illa, solvet saeclum in favilla," which means "that day will dissolve the world into glowing ashes." The testimony of David and the Prophetess Sibyl are invoked to emphasize the seriousness of the situation.

The second stanza is a contemplation of the fear and trembling that will accompany the arrival of the Judge. The phrase "Quantus tremor est futurus" is repeated three times, each time with the name "Dies irae" and "Dies illa" interspersed. This repetition underscores the idea that the Day of Wrath will be an overwhelming and terrifying event beyond human comprehension, a moment when all will be judged strictly.

The final stanza repeats the same phrases and emphasizes the strictness of judgment. The words "cuncta stricte discussurus" mean "all things strictly to be judged," with the repetition of the phrase "cuncta stricte" further reinforcing the idea of scrutiny and judgment. The piece ends with a chilling repetition of "cuncta stricte discussurus" that fades out into silence.