ABSTRACT
And why don't you write? Write! Writing is for you, you are for you; your body is yours, take it.2
To the Most Illustrious and Excellent Lady, Donna Isabella de' Medici Orsina, Duchess of Bracciano.
I know truly, most Illustrious and Most Excellent Lady, that these first fruits of mine cannot, because of their weakness, produce the effect that I would like, which would be, other than to give Your Excellence some proof of my devotion, to show also to the world (as much as is allowed me in this musical profession) the conceited error of men. They believe so strongly to be the masters of the high gifts of the intellect that, in their opinion, these gifts cannot likewise be shared by Women.
Nevertheless, I did not want to fail to publish them: I hope these works will acquire so much light from the renowned name of Your Excellence (to whom I reverently dedicate them) that from this light other, more elevated minds may be kindled, in order to demonstrate with clear effect what I could not demonstrate, if not with my intent.
Therefore, Your Excellence, please accept this sincere intention of mine, and if from such unripe fruits I could not obtain that praise which is the only reward for virtuous toils, let at least your generosity allow me to enjoy the reward of your favor. In this way, I will always consider these fruits, if not good, at least most fortunate.
I humbly kiss the hands of Your Excellence. From Venice, the tenth day of April, 1568. The most humble servant of Your Excellence, Madalena Casulana.
42The dedication to Madalana Casulana's first publication, Il primo libro de madrigali a quattro voci, Venice: Girolamo Scotto, 1568.3
