Flower and Hawk
(1972) 45’
Monodrama for soprano and orchestra
Text Libretto by the composer
Scoring soprano;
2.2.2.2-4.2.2.1-timp.perc-cel-harp-strings
Version for reduced orchestra available:
1.1.1.1-2.1.1.1-timp.perc-cel-harp-strings
Flower and Hawk is based on the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine, arguably the greatest woman of the Middle Ages. In her long life of 82 years she was born the Duchess of Aquitaine and Countess of Poitou, became Queen of France through marriage to Louis VII, and later became Queen of England when she married Henry II.
The monodrama takes place in Salisbury Tower, where Eleanor has been a prisoner for nearly 16 years: Henry II had her confined there after she and her sons led an unsuccessful rebellion against him in France. Overcome by feelings of despair, abandonment, and betrayal, she relives memories of becoming the Queen of France, the many conflicts she endured with her two husbands, and her son Richard’s death.
She finally releases herself from the guilt and self-doubt surrounding this tragic event of her son’s death. She is able to re-assume her role as Queen when the tolling of the bells announces the death of Henry and her liberation from Salisbury Tower.
“It’s commonplace now, in our current golden age, that new American opera can say something substatial, and legible, about the way we live now. But Carlisle began that project in a time when many doubted it; and continued it through a catalog of 12 matchlessly clear and often emotionally devastating scores. As an artist, a mentor, and a friend, he was exemplary: America was fortunate to have him.”
— Composer Mark Adamo