(fl. early 15th century)

English composer, a contemporary of Leonel … Read Full Bio ↴(fl. early 15th century)

English composer, a contemporary of Leonel Power. There are two motets of Forest's in the Old Hall manuscript, but much more survives in Continental sources such as the Trent Codices. His music contrasts declamatory and melismatic passages; the conflict of rhythms between the various voices gives his music a restless quality.

Qualis est dilectus tuus
John Forest Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Qualis est dilectus tuus ex dilectis o
Pulcheria mulieru amicus meus et rubimu
Sub electus ex milibus leua eius
Sub rapite meo et Dextraillius amplexabitur me

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to John Forest's song "Qualis est dilectus tuus" are in Latin and describe the beauty and qualities of a beloved person. The phrase "Qualis est dilectus tuus" translates to "What is your beloved like?" and sets the tone for the rest of the song. The first two lines describe the beloved as a beautiful woman, with the words "Pulcheria mulieru" meaning "beautiful woman". The third line talks about how the beloved is chosen from among thousands or "ex milibus leva eius". The final line suggests that the person singing the song is being embraced by the beloved with both their left and right arms, or "Sub rapite meo et Dextraillius amplexabitur me".

Overall, the song is a tribute to a beloved person and their beauty and qualities. The use of Latin adds to the romantic and timeless feel of the song, while the imagery of being embraced by the beloved creates a sense of intimacy and connection.

Line by Line Meaning

Qualis est dilectus tuus ex dilectis o
What kind of beloved is yours out of the beloved?

Pulcheria mulieru amicus meus et rubimu
She is a beautiful woman, my friend, and my ruby.

Sub electus ex milibus leua eius
Under the chosen from thousands, her left hand.

Sub rapite meo et Dextraillius amplexabitur me
Under my headrest, and with his right hand, he will embrace me.

Contributed by Madison N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

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