Benjamin Britten "Lachrymae" - Reflections or Variations?

The book you are holding in your hands now describes the most mysterious work for viola of the most mysterious composer of the 20th century. Viola performers often include "Lachrymae" in their concert repertoire, but not everyone understands the true purpose of this piece. Even the first performer of "Lachrymae" - the famous Scottish viola player William Primrose wrote that he never understood this piece, and that he was forced to perform "Lachrymae". The title of this work is: "Lachrymae. Reflections on a Song of John Dowland". However, in some textbooks, the structure of Lachrymae is described as a Theme with Variations. It would be fair to believe that if the composer would like to make variations, then he would call his brainchild "variations". Why didn't Britten use the word "variations" in the title, but write "reflections"? What was he thinking at that moment? Who is John Dowland? The answer is in this book, where we will try to analyze the "Lachrymae" and understand the origins of its name. Rather, dear reader, open the first page! Here we will meet a war, inspiration, love, separation and... of course, tears...