John Barleycorn
(Traditional)
Performer(s): Martin Carthy;
and various other artists



John Barleycorn is a hero bold as any in the land
For ages good his fame has stood and shall for ever stand
The whole wide world respect in him, no matter friend or foe
And where they be that makes so free he's sure to lay them low

To see him in his pride of youth his robes are rich and green
His head is speared with manly beard fit nigh to serve the queen
And when the reaping time comes round and John is stricken down
We'll use his blood for Englands good and Englishmen's renown

The lord in courtly castle, the squire in stately hall
The great of name, of birth and fame, on John for succour call
He bids the troubled heart rejoice, brings warmth to nature's cold
Makes weak men strong, and old men young, and all men brave and bold

Then shout for great John Barleycorn, more heed his luscious vine
I have no mind much charm to find in potent draught of wine
Give me my native nut brown ale, all other drinks I scorn
For English cheer is English beer, our own John Barleycorn