Banks of the Roses

“Banks of the Roses” is a traditional Irish folk song that dates back many years. It tells the story of a young couple who find themselves on the banks of the roses, sitting down and enjoying each other’s company. The protagonist takes out his fiddle and begins to play a tune for his love. In the middle of the melody, she smiles and asks him to leave her. “On the banks of the Roses me love and I sat down And I took out me fiddle for to play me love a tune And in the middle of the tune-o she smiled and she said: ‘Ere Johnny, lovely Johnny won’t ya leave me’” The lyrics continue to delve into the protagonist’s past, revealing that their father would rather see them dead and buried than married to a runaway. However, the protagonist insists that they are not a runaway and will make it known to everyone soon. They assert that they can handle their vices, such as alcohol, and if her father disagrees, he can keep his daughter at home while they find someone else to roam with. As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the couple’s love is strong, and they have plans for the future. They dream of getting married in the month of May, surrounded by the vibrant green of the leaves and the joy of the meadows. They anticipate a life filled with love, laughter, and endless play on the banks of the roses. Throughout the song, the melancholic melody perfectly complements the bittersweet lyrics. It evokes a sense of longing, nostalgia, and a yearning for a love that overcomes any obstacle. The Dubliners’ rendition of “Banks of the Roses” captures the essence of Irish folk music, with its raw and passionate delivery.