Poem by Baudelaire (Invitation au voyage) translated by the composer's father S N Solomons. A long luxurious evocation of a world of the imagination. The recording is from the CD Songs of Solomons and was performed by Stephen Taylor (countertenor) and Jonathan Leonard (piano), who have given permission for use of their performance. My sister, oh my child, think of that life so mild, dwelling together, loving at leisure, loving and dying and in your very land. The brimming suns of those wan skies evoke such spells: charms without reason, as with the treason of eyes tear-welled. All there is form and beauty, sensual serenity.

Soft gleaming chairs, stroked by the years gracing our chamber and rare flowers mingling their odour with scent of amber. Sumptuous ceilings infinite mirrors gracing our cham-ber, and subtle splendours: all would accord secrets: sweet secrets to the soul in their own words. And all is form and beauty, sensual ecstasy.

On the canal float and rock the boats in errant mood. It is to soothe your every whim from far they come. The setting sun enflames the town, the fields, canals alike, in gold and hyacinth, while the world sinks into a warm warm light. There all is formal beauty, calm sensuality.