La Courte Paille was the last vocal music Poulenc composed on seven poems of Belgian poet Maurice Carême. At Poulenc’s request Carême titled the cycle, choosing La Courte Paille (The Short Straw), which refers to drawing lots. Poulenc was delighted, saying the title symbolized his little musical game exactly. This edition belongs to “Musique vocale française”, a series devoted to French vocal repertoire – both in original and transposed key – designed for students and teachers as well as professionals. Historical introduction and lyrics in French and English.