John Barleycorn

"John Barleycorn" is an English and Scottish folk song. The song's main character is John Barleycorn, who stands for barley and the beer made from it. In the story, John faces many hard times and challenges that match the steps in growing barley, like being cut down and prepared for making beer.

The song likely started in old English or Scottish folklore, with written records going back to at least the Elizabethan era. It is known as number 164 in the Roud Folk Song Index. The oldest versions are from Scotland and include a Scots poem called "Quhy Sowld Nocht Allane Honorit Be". In 1782, the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns wrote his own version of the song, which helped shape later versions.

The song stayed alive through word of mouth into the twentieth century, mainly in England. Many folk singers have recorded their own versions of the song. In most of these stories, the plant's tough treatment by people and its return as beer to make things right are important parts of the tale.

History

The song "John Barleycorn" tells the story of a character named John Barleycorn, who represents barley and the beer made from it. The song describes the different stages of growing barley, from planting to harvesting, through events that happen to John Barleycorn.

The song may have very old origins, possibly linked to ancient rituals. Some believe it could be related to old myths and legends. The first written version of the song appeared in 1624, telling a story of Sir John Barleycorn and his friends. Later, the famous poet Robert Burns wrote his own version in 1782, which added a deeper meaning and became very popular. Over the years, many people have recorded and sung this traditional song in different places.

Musical adaptations

Ralph Vaughan Williams used a version of the song in his English Folk Song Suite in 1923. Many famous musicians have recorded their own versions of the song. For example, the rock group Traffic included it on their 1970 album John Barleycorn Must Die, and Jethro Tull featured it on their 1992 album A Little Light Music and other albums.

The song is also a key part of Simon Emmerson's The Imagined Village project. Martin and Eliza Carthy performed it with Paul Weller on the Imagined Village album, while Billy Bragg sang in Weller's place during live shows. Rock guitarist Joe Walsh played the song live in 2007 to honor Jim Capaldi. English folk musician Sam Lee recorded a version on his album "Old Wow," and made a video at Stonehenge.

In popular culture

"John Barleycorn" has often stood for alcohol in many places. Several pubs in southern England, such as in Duxford, Harlow, Goring, and Southampton, are named "John Barleycorn." Famous writer Jack London named his 1913 autobiographical novel John Barleycorn after the song, talking about his experiences with drinking.

In one episode of the show Inside No. 9 called "Mr King" from 2022, schoolchildren sing the song as part of a harvest festival tradition.