“Scarborough Fair/Canticle” by Simon & Garfunkel is a timeless folk ballad that has left an indelible mark on the music world. This hauntingly beautiful song weaves together elements of traditional English folk music with the duo’s signature harmonies. Released in 1966 as part of their iconic album “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme,” this song stands as a testament to Simon & Garfunkel’s songwriting genius and their ability to create music that resonates across generations.
Did You Know?
Did you know that “Scarborough Fair/Canticle” is based on an English traditional ballad, “Scarborough Fair”? Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel reimagined and expanded upon the original song, infusing it with a new, socially conscious dimension. The “Canticle” portion of the song includes lyrics from another of their compositions, “The Side of a Hill.” This amalgamation of old and new creates a unique and thought-provoking musical experience.
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Lyrics
Are you going to Scarborough Fair? Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme Remember me to one who lives there She once was a true love of mine
Tell her to make me a cambric shirt (in the deep forest green) Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme (Tracing of sparrow on snow-crested ground) Without no seams nor needle work (Bedclothes the child of the mountain) Then she’ll be a true love of mine (Sleeps unaware of the clarion call)
Tell her to find me an acre of land (A sprinkling of leaves) Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme (Washes the grave with silvery tears) Between the salt water and the sea strands (And polishes a gun) Then she’ll be a true love of mine
Tell her to reap it with a sickle of leather (Blazing in scarlet battalions) Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme (Generals order their soldiers to kill) And gather it all in a bunch of heather (A cause they’ve long ago forgotten) Then she’ll be a true love of mine
Are you going to Scarborough Fair? Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme Remember me to one who lives there She once was a true love of mine
