From Neo-Classicism to Romanticism in Late 18th Century Spain

José de Cadalso (1741-1782)

In spring, after the death of Phylis

It doesn’t matter that stormy winds are enchained one by one in their cave

or Neptune command his element be still with his blue trident

or Amaltea fill the fertile field with fruits and flowers

and that sweet bird songs echo with renewed vigor

Nor even that the defrosted stream rush on . . .

Oh, Green Spring, for you announce your return, that men have so desired, in vain

Triumphant over cold, sad Winter.

For with Phylis dead, the Earth has nothing to hope for

But frightening mist, freezing nights,

Shadows and fear . . .

Just like my heart.

A la primavera, después de la muerte de Filis No basta que en su cueva se encadene el uno y otro proceloso viento, ni que Neptuno mande a su elemento con el tridente azul que se serene; ni que Amaltea el fértil campo llene de fruta y flor, ni que con nuevo aliento al eco den las aves dulce acento, ni que el arroyo desatado suene. En vano anuncias, verde primavera, tu vuelta de los hombres deseada, triunfante del invierno triste y frío. Muerta Filis, el orbe nada espera, sino niebla espantosa, noche helada, sombras y susto como el pecho mío.