For a happier post...

[dallaggochie]

I came across this ancient inscription years ago, and just saw it again on a luthier's blog:

Viva fui in silvis
(I was alive in the wood)
Sum dura Occisa
(I was cut by the cruel axe)
Securi dum vixi tacui
(In life I was silent)
Mortua dolce cano
(In death I sweetly sing)

Comments

[phrench_phried]

The first time I read this was in Cumpiano and Natelson's book 'Guitar Making'. It was supposedly found inscribed in a very early guitar or lute... I can't remember.

[dallaggochie]

Yup - I just saw it again on Cumpiano's blog. I can't remember if he's where I first saw it, though. It may very well be.

[phrench_phried]

I didn't know Cumpiano had a blog! Well, now I do. Thanks.