"Heather Dale's songs express something that honors tradition, but in keeping with the best of traditions they break new ground." WDVR FM (USA)
Hunting the Wren
Heather Dale Lyrics
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On St. Stephen's Day he got caught in the firs
It's up with the kettle and down with the pan
Give us a penny for to bury the wren
Oh the wren, oh the wren is a terrible rake
Won't you give us a penny for the little bird's wake?
It's up with the bottle and it's down with the can
Oh the wren, oh the wren has the tiniest quill
Won't you give us a penny for the little bird's will?
It's up with the paper and it's down with the pen
Give us a penny for to bury the wren
Oh the wren, oh the wren is the king of all birds
On St. Stephen's day he got caught in the firs
It's up with the kettle and down with the pan
Give us a penny for to bury the wren
Heather Dale's song "Hunting the Wren" is a traditional Irish folk song which describes the St. Stephen's Day celebration, which takes place on December 26. The lyrics speak of the wren being considered the king of all birds and how on this day, it is captured and killed, only to be buried with respect. The first verse tells of how the wren is caught in the firs and the people then request a penny from the surrounding community to honor the death of the bird. The second and third verses both ask for a penny to be given for the wren's wake and will, respectively. It is interesting to note that in Irish mythology, the wren was once considered a sacred bird of the druids and killing this bird was considered a bad omen. However, as times changed, it became a tradition to kill and honor the wren on St. Stephen's Day.
The song also highlights the unique features of the wren, such as having the tiniest quill. This shows how important this bird was to the Irish people, as they recognized and admired its unique qualities. The chorus is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the importance of giving a penny to honor the wren's sacrifice.
Overall, "Hunting the Wren" is a beautiful song that not only celebrates a unique Irish tradition but also highlights the importance of respecting and honoring all living creatures. It also serves as a reminder of how traditions evolve and change over time.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh the wren, oh the wren is the king of all birds
The wren is a small bird that is admired above all others.
On St. Stephen's Day he got caught in the firs
On a particular day, the wren was trapped in a group of conifers.
It's up with the kettle and down with the pan
In order to celebrate the wren, they are raising a kettle and lowering a pan.
Give us a penny for to bury the wren
People are being asked to give money for the purpose of burying the deceased bird.
Oh the wren, oh the wren is a terrible rake
Despite its small size, the wren has a reputation for being a rascal.
Won't you give us a penny for the little bird's wake?
Please contribute a penny towards a gathering to commemorate the wren's passing.
It's up with the bottle and it's down with the can
To honor the wren, they are raising a bottle and lowering a can.
Oh the wren, oh the wren has the tiniest quill
The wren has the smallest feather of any bird.
Won't you give us a penny for the little bird's will?
Please contribute a penny in honor of the wren's final wishes.
Contributed by Makayla R. Suggest a correction in the comments below.