The Message
John Martyn Lyrics


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Every day and all night
I'm trying to tell you're all right
Every day and every night
I try to tell you it's black and white.

And though I know it's your life and your time
And I know that it makes you feel fine
Don't you know that it's wrong
If you let life do that to you, love.

Step we gaily on we go
Heel for heel and toe for toe
Arm and arm and row and row
All for Mhairi's wedding.

Plenty herring, plenty meal
Plenty fish to fill the creel
Plenty bonnie bairns as well
That's the toast for Mhairi.

Every day and all night
You're trying to tell me you're all right
Every day and all night
You're trying to tell me it's black and white.

And though I know that it makes you feel fine
And I know it's your life and your time
Don't you know that it's wrong
If you let life do that to you, love.

Step we gaily on we go
Heel for heel and toe for toe
Arm and arm and row and row
All for Mhairi's wedding.

Plenty herring, plenty meal
Plenty fish to fill the creel
Plenty bonnie bairns as well
That's the toast for Mhairi.

Step we gaily on we go
Heel for heel and toe for toe
Arm and arm and row and row
All for Mhairi's wedding.

Plenty herring, plenty meal
Plenty fish to fill the creel




Plenty bonnie bairns as well
That's the toast for Mhairi

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to John Martyn's song "The Message" seem to be a combination of two different songs. The first set of lyrics talks about the singer trying to convince someone that they are "alright" and that life isn't just black and white. The second set of lyrics are more jovial, describing a celebration for Mhairi's wedding with plenty of food, drink, and merriment.


The juxtaposition between these two sets of lyrics is interesting, as it leaves the listener wondering if there is a deeper connection between them. Perhaps the singer is suggesting that even in the midst of celebration and happiness, life can still be complex and challenging. The repetition of the lines "step we gaily on we go" and "plenty herring, plenty meal" add to the festive tone of the song, but also create a sense of repetition and routine, highlighting the monotony of everyday life.


Line by Line Meaning





Contributed by Alexis L. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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