Within this frail crucible of light

Libretto/Lyrics/Text/Testo:

Tarquinius
Within this frail crucible of light,
like a chrysalis contained within its silk oblivion.
How lucky is this little light;
it knows her nakedness.
And when it's extinguished,
it envelops her as darkness,
then lies with her as night.
Loveliness like this is never chaste! If not enjoyed, it is such a waste!
Wake up, wake up, Lucretia!

Female Chorus
No! Sleep, and outrace Tarquinius' horse and be with your Lord Collatinus.
Sleep on, Lucretia!

Tarquinius
As blood-red rubies set in ebony,
her lips illumine the black lake of night. To wake Lucretia with a kiss
would put Tarquinius asleep awhile.

(He kisses Lucretia)

Female Chorus
Her lips receive Tarquinius. She's dreaming of Collatinus. And, desiring him,
draws down Tarquinius.
And wakes to kiss again and...

(Lucretia wakes)