This is another of the many Mozart lieder extolling the virtues of simplicity and contentment

with little. Like KV 473, the title translates as "Contendedness."

It begins with a fairly long introduction from the mandolin, which leads into one of his

most charming vocal melodies. The gentle lilt is almost like that of a lullaby, and rather

resembles the rhythmic patterns of Schumann's Die Lotusblume, of course written much later.

Between the verses, the mandolin accompaniment repeats the theme, with some very delicate

ornamentation, again leading gracefully into the next verse.

"What use would money and possessions be to me in my contentment? As long as God gives me

good health, I'll be happy and sing thankfully my morning and my evening song." It goes on

to praise nature, and finally to praise and thank God for the gifts of nature and happiness.

The song could be mawkish, but the delicacy and freshness of the melody and simplicity of

the accompaniment make it truly charming.

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