“The Banks of Cloughwater”

Description

The singer loves Ellen, and cannot sleep for the love of her. But her parents oppose their match; now he is forced to "stand on guard this night to shun your company." He promises to make her his own; he has money and fears no one

Notes

This song, as it stands in the Henry collection, seems confused; if he is courting the girl, why does he stand guard against her. If her parents kept her hidden, how did he see her, and at last meet her to plan their escape? Presumably either something has been lost or extraneous material has entered this song. - RBW

References

  1. SHenry H777, pp. 427-428, "The Banks of [the] Cloughwater" (1 text, 1 tune)
  2. Roud #7961
  3. BI, HHH777

About

Author: unknown
Earliest date: 1938 (Sam Henry collection)
Found in: Ireland