Tag Archives: animals in folk song

Selkies

Posted on April 28, 2015 by H.M. Goodchild

It’s been a while since I posted on a folksong but I’ve had one going around in my mind for a fair time. It’s Child Ballad no. 113, The Great Silkie of Sule Skerrie. The version in my music collection … Continue reading →

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Death and the ravens

Posted on June 20, 2011 by H.M. Goodchild

More knights this time. Not murderous for a change, only dead. One song in particular caught my attention: The Three Ravens (Child Ballad no. 26). It’s an achingly sad tale set after some battle or other. The ravens are looking for their … Continue reading →

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True loves and happy endings

Posted on May 24, 2011 by H.M. Goodchild

Well, parrots have had a mention but they’re not the only talking animals to be found in folksong. The Broomfield Hill or The Broomfield Wager (Child Ballad no. 43) has a positive menagerie of talking beasts, though all are rather less exotic … Continue reading →

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The folksong parrot

Posted on May 16, 2011 by H.M. Goodchild

I’ve just discovered a terrific ballad on an album bought on spec ‘cos I liked the band’s name (‘Crooked Still’ since you ask). It’s called ‘Henry Lee’ and is a version (probably) of ‘The outlandish knight’ but with a murderous … Continue reading →

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