The Undertaking
John Donne
1572 to 1631
I have done one braver thing
Then all the Worthies did,
And yet a braver thence doth spring,
Which is, to keepe that hid.
It were but madnes now t'impart
The skill of specular stone,
When he which can have learn'd the art
To cut it, can finde none.
So, if I now should utter this,
Others (because no more
Such stuffe to worke upon, there is,)
Would love but as before.
But he who lovelinesse within
Hath found, all outward loathes,
For he who colour loves, and skinne,
Loves but their oldest clothes.
If, as I have, you also doe
Vertue'attir'd in woman see,
And dare love that, and say so too,
And forget the Hee and Shee;
And if this love, though placed so,
From prophane men you hide,
Which will no faith on this bestow,
Or, if they doe, deride:
Then you have done a braver thing
Then all the Worthies did;
And a braver thence will spring,
Which is, to keepe that hid.
John Donne's The Undertaking
We are busy working to bring John Donne's "The Undertaking" to life through our unique musical arrangements and will have a full analysis of the poem here for you soon.
At V2Melody, each arrangement is crafted with care through a thoughtful partnership of human artistry and technological innovation. This process involves:
- Deep analysis of the poem's rhythm, structure, and emotional essence
- Careful selection of musical styles that enhance the poem's unique voice
- Balancing traditional poetic expression with contemporary sound landscapes
- Multiple revisions to ensure the arrangement honors the poet's original vision
This creative journey takes time—each composition represents hours of dedicated work to create something that deepens our connection to John Donne's words in meaningful ways.
While you wait for our complete interpretation, we invite you to explore other musical arrangements in our gallery or learn more about John Donne's life and contributions to literature.
Check back soon to experience how "The Undertaking" transforms when verse meets melody—a unique journey that makes poetry accessible, engaging, and profoundly moving in new ways.