The Tree and the Water of Life
by Ralph Vaughan Williams,
from the song cycle, The Pilgrim’s Progress

This piece of subtle charm seems in some ways scarcely touched by the 20th century. Evocative and melodic, proceding from minor to major mood, it has a flowing, unvarying, river-like accompaniment. Twenty-first century listeners may interpret the minor key as an expression of longing to enter into the holy city, resolving into major at the end. The lovely text from Revelation is not an overworked one, and the music offers a distinct change of flavor.

Text: based on Revelation 2:7 and chapter 22:1,2

Unto him that overcometh shall be given of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. On either side of the river groweth the tree of life; the leaves of the tree are for thy healing.

In the midst of that fair city flows the river of water of life, clear as crystal. Whoso will, let him take of the water of life freely. Whoso drinketh of this water shall never thirst.

Take thou the leaves of the tree of life; so shalt thou enter in through the gates of the city.