“As She Moved Through The Fair” is a traditional Irish folk song that has been covered by many artists and has become a classic in its own right. The song has a haunting melody and poignant lyrics that tell a story of love and loss. In this article, we will explore the lyrics of “As She Moved Through The Fair” and the history behind the song.
The Lyrics of “As She Moved Through The Fair”
The lyrics of “As She Moved Through The Fair” are simple yet powerful. The song tells the story of a young man who sees his lover moving through the fair on her way to marry another man. The first verse sets the scene:
My young love said to me, “My mother won’t mind
And my father won’t slight you for your lack of kind.”
And she stepped away from me and this she did say,
“It will not be long, love, till our wedding day.”
The second verse describes the young man’s heartbreak:
She stepped away from me and she moved through the fair
And fondly I watched her move here and move there
And then she went homeward with one star awake
As the swan in the evening moves over the lake.
The third verse reveals the tragic ending:
Last night she came to me, my dead love came in
So softly she came that her feet made no din
And she laid her hand on me and this she did say
“It will not be long, love, till our wedding day.”
The History of “As She Moved Through The Fair”
“As She Moved Through The Fair” is a traditional Irish song that has been passed down through generations. The origins of the song are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in County Donegal in the north of Ireland. The song was first collected by the Irish folk music collector Herbert Hughes in the early 20th century.
Since then, “As She Moved Through The Fair” has been covered by many artists, both in Ireland and beyond. Some of the most famous versions include recordings by Sinead O’Connor, Loreena McKennitt, and Van Morrison.
The Meaning of “As She Moved Through The Fair”
The lyrics of “As She Moved Through The Fair” have been interpreted in many different ways. Some people see the song as a tragic love story, with the young man’s lover dying before they could be married. Others see the song as a commentary on the strict social conventions of Ireland in the past, where marriages were often arranged by families and love was not always a consideration.
Whatever the interpretation, there is no denying the emotional power of “As She Moved Through The Fair”. The haunting melody and poignant lyrics have touched the hearts of generations of listeners, making it one of the most beloved songs in the Irish folk music tradition.
The Legacy of “As She Moved Through The Fair”
“As She Moved Through The Fair” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years, and it remains a staple of the Irish folk music tradition.
Whether you are a fan of traditional Irish music or simply appreciate a beautiful melody and meaningful lyrics, “As She Moved Through The Fair” is a song that is sure to touch your heart.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “As She Moved Through The Fair” is a beautiful and poignant song that tells a story of love and loss. Its haunting melody and simple yet powerful lyrics have made it a beloved classic in the Irish folk music tradition. Whether you are a lifelong fan of this timeless song or are hearing it for the first time, its emotional power is sure to stay with you long after the music has stopped.
