Spanish and Italian Folk - Songs, translated by Alma Strettell (Macmillan), would
be a most charming book if the value of its contents were proportionate to its elegance in the matter of appearance. But although not without a certain interest, and although containing some beauties of idea and expression, it will scarcely add to the treasures either of folk-lore or of poetry. The title, too, is somewhat misleading, for the so-called Spanish folk- songs are only gipsy rhymes, with but little of the properties of folk-songs, while those of Italy are drawn from only two or three districts. The translator, however, admits that her aim has been
merely " to bring into notice a few examples " which have seemed to her " peculiarly interesting and characteristic ;" but this being the case, she would have done well to modify her title. The Italian songs are often really pretty, and have decidedly the advantage in every respect over those of the Spanish gipsies, which are mostly mere nothings, as, for example :—
"One ineourght night
I saw the grave-digger, digging My grave in the silvery light."
Such trifles as this look rather shamefaced when presented bare and alone in the middle of a wide page. The photogravures by which the songs are illustrated are well executed and generally tasteful, the printing and paper all that could be desired. The book will probably be found useful as a gift-book.
Previous page
