METAMORPHOSIS by Dane Alexander Carten (b. 1992)

​​

Change, enervation, growth. These ever-present forces underpin the core of human experience—a potpourri of chaotic crises and infinite roadblocks that seem to halt our progress. Yet, it is in these tribulations that the essence of human existence is truly felt: despite our cosmological insignificance, despite residing on a blue orb hurtling through a careless void, we find connection and meaning in the mundanity of everyday life. From sleepless nights spent in mental anguish to life-altering decisions, to the simplest human touch, each step moves us closer to some conclusion. But how do we delineate growth, enervation, and change? Is the slow decay of the body and spirit simply a byproduct of existence, or does it serve a deeper purpose?

​

When searching for text for a new cantata, I reached out to my friend and colleague Dr. Jordan M. Shomper. I wanted a modern text that would explore a nuanced and nearly universal aspect of the human experience. Dr. Shomper's response was a multi-stanza poem, using the hours of the day as an allegory for the growth of the self, capturing both the joyous and the ugly parts of that process. Together, we decided on the title METAMORPHOSIS, a term often used to describe the transformation of a caterpillar into a moth or butterfly. This process is strange, poignant, beautiful, and unequivocally disgusting—just as the growth of the self often feels. As we shared the challenges of pursuing terminal degrees, Dr. Shomper and I found a deep connection to this idea.

​

METAMORPHOSIS explores these themes in a six-movement arc, with its central chorale movement drawing from four quatrains of Omar Khayyam's Rubaiyat and the second movement featuring a poem by Rumi. The overall structure of the work narrates the cycle of change, enervation, and growth of the self—from deep existential realization and periods of self-doubt to a triumphant resolution, celebrating personal transformation and renewal.

​

I: Twilight's Haze (Shomper)

​

In twilight's haze -
When halcyon dream dreads tempest’s roar,
Rousing anticipation for what’s in store,
Whispering doubts within life’s exchange.

​

II: Sleep (Rumi)

​

Sleep, this year, has no authority.
Night has stopped looking for us
when we’re like this - Invisible
Until dawn comes.

​

This night extends into eternity,
Like a fire burning inside another
Forgetting it is grief, and a lack of courage.

​

III: Midnight's Shawl (Shomper)

​

In midnight’s shawl - 
When shadows shun candle’s glow,
Glaring doubt on hopes exposed, 
Shouting for truth in a clarion call.

​

IV: The Seventh Gate (Khayaam)

​

 With them the seed of Wisdom did I sow,
And with mine own hand wrought to make it grow;
   And this was all the Harvest that I reap'd—
"I came like Water, and like Wind I go."

​

 And not a drop that from our Cups we throw
For Earth to drink of, but may steal below
   To quench the fire of Anguish in some Eye
There hidden—far beneath, and long ago.

​

 Up from Earth's Center through the Seventh Gate
I rose, and on the Throne of Saturn sate,
   And many a Knot unravel'd by the Road;
But not the Master-knot of Human Fate.

​

Would but some wing'ed Angel ere too late
Arrest the yet unfolded Roll of Fate,
And make the stern Recorder otherwise
Enregister, or quite obliterate!

​

So when that Angel of the darker Drink
At last shall find you by the river-brink,
   And, offering his Cup, invite your Soul
Forth to your Lips to quaff—you shall not shrink.

​

V: Dusk (Shomper)

​

Come dusk’s first light - 
When crystal waters weave through the vale,
Venturing, flying through unmarked trail,
Singing for sunrise and desires to ignite!
 

VI: Burst Forth, My Soul! (Shomper)

​

​Burst forth, my soul! 
Bloom in me, my own sweet song!
I rise! I rise! Reborn! 
Emerge, yet again, more resilient and strong.