John Keats (1795 – 1821) is one the most famous and loved poets from the British Romantic Era. In 1818 he met and fell in love with a young woman named Fanny Brawne (1800 – 1865). The couple became secretly engaged in 1819 and during the short time they knew each other many romantic notes were exchanged between the sweethearts. The letters from John to Fanny have become some of the most famous love letters ever written.
A photograph of Fanny Brawne taken circa 1850.
A posthumous oil portrait of John Keats painted cirka 1822 by William Hilton.
On October 13th 1819, John writes:
“I have been astonished that men could die martyrs
for their religion–
I have shuddered at it,
I shudder no more.
I could be martyred for my religion.
Love is my religion
and I could die for that.
I could die for you.”
This song is inspired by this quote and the beautiful movie Bright Star (2009) which depicts John and Fanny’s romantic relationship. Sadly John died aged 25 of tuberculosis before they could start a future together.
The album art is a watercolor painting by the American printmaker and painter George Elbert Burr (1859 –1939).
Instruments used in this track: Piano and female vocals
Listen on Bandcamp
Lyrics
I shudder no more
At martyrs no more
I have been astonished that men can die
For religion give up their lives
But I could die for you
Yes I would die for you
I am astonished no more
Love is my religion now I know
I could be martyred for that
For my love for you for that
I could die for you
Yes I would die for you
I shudder no more
At martyrs no more
I am astonished no more
Love is my religion now I know
I could die for you
Yes I would die for you
I could die for you
Yes I would die for you
