Candide, Act I: "Glitter and Be Gay" (Cunégonde)London Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Davis Songtext
von Natalie Dessay

Glitter and be gay
That′s the part I play
Here I am in Paris, France

Forced to bend my soul
To a sordid role
Victimized by bitter, bitter circumstance

Alas, for me! Had I remained
Beside my lady mother
My virtue had remained unstained
Until my maiden hand was gained

By some Grand Duke or other
Ah, 'twas not to be
Harsh necessity
Brought me to this gilded cage

Born to higher things
Here I drop my wings
Ah! Singing of a sorrow nothing can assuage


And yet, of course, I′d rather like to revel
I have no strong objection to champagne
My wardrobe is expensive as the devil
Perhaps it is ignoble to complain

Enough, enough
Of being basely tearful!
I'll show my noble stuff
By being bright and cheerful!

Pearls and ruby rings
Ah, how can worldly things
Take the place of honor lost?
Can they compensate
For my fallen state
Purchased as they were at such an awful cost?

Bracelets, lavalieres
Can they dry my tears?
Can they blind my eyes to shame?
Can the brightest brooch
Shield me from reproach?
Can the purest diamond purify my name?


And yet, of course, these trinkets are endearing
I'm oh, so glad my sapphire is a star
I rather like a 20-carat earring
If I′m not pure, at least my jewels are!

Enough! Enough!
I′ll take their diamond necklace
And show my noble stuff
By being gay and reckless!

Observe how bravely I conceal
The dreadful, dreadful shame I feel