Beethoven’s song “Lebensglück” (“A Happy Life”) is also known as “Das Glück der Freundschaft” (“The Joy of Friendship”). It was composed and published in 1803. The source of the text is unknown.
Although Beethoven’s song “Lebensglück” purports to be about friendship, it is less about philia than eros. One stanaza:
He has truly attained happiness
Who has found himself a girl
To whom he is intimately bound
By tender feelings of love.
#Beethoven250 Day 175
“Lebensglück” (Opus 88), 1803
A rare live performance, alas in portrait mode.
#Beethoven250 Day 175
“Vita Felice” (Opus 88), 1803
Beginning with an early edition in 1803, “Lebensglück” was also published and performed with Italian lyrics under the title “Vita felice.”