Greensleeves
Rowenda Taheny Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
To cast me off discourteously
For I have loved you well and long
Delighting in your company
Greensleeves was my delight
Greensleeves was my heart of gold
Greensleeves was all my joy
I have been ready at your hand
To grant whatever you would crave
I have both wagered life and land
Your love and good-will for to have
Greensleeves was my delight
Greensleeves was my heart of gold
Greensleeves was all my joy
Who but my Lady Greensleeves
Alas, my love, you do me wrong
To cast me off discourteously
For I have loved you well and long
Delighting in your company
The song "Greensleeves" is a traditional English folk ballad that has been interpreted by many artists over the years. The lyrics of the song speak of unrequited love and the pain that comes with it. The singer of the song is lamenting the fact that his love interest, referred to as Lady Greensleeves, has dismissed him without any respect or kindness. He explains that he has always loved her and enjoyed her company, and that his love for her has been constant and true.
The singer then goes on to describe how he has always been there for Lady Greensleeves, ready to do whatever she asks of him, even wagering his life and land for her love and good will. He is devoted to her, and yet she still treats him poorly. The chorus of the song repeats the idea that Greensleeves was the singer's delight, heart of gold, and all his joy, emphasizing the depth of his love for Lady Greensleeves.
Overall, "Greensleeves" is a poignant portrayal of unrequited love and the pain that can come with it. The singer's devotion to Lady Greensleeves is clear, and yet she continues to treat him poorly, leaving him feeling heartbroken and alone.
Line by Line Meaning
Alas, my love, you do me wrong
I'm saddened that you're treating me this way, my love
To cast me off discourteously
your actions feel rude and unkind
For I have loved you well and long
I've loved and cared for you deeply for a long time
Delighting in your company
being around you brings me genuine joy and happiness
Greensleeves was my delight
the tune 'Greensleeves' always made me happy
Greensleeves was my heart of gold
the song 'Greensleeves' had a special place in my heart
Greensleeves was all my joy
listening to 'Greensleeves' was my source of joy and happiness
Who but my Lady Greensleeves
only my lady Greensleeves could be responsible for bringing such joy into my life
I have been ready at your hand
I've always been there for you whenever you needed me
To grant whatever you would crave
I was willing to give you anything that you asked for
I have both wagered life and land
I risked everything, even my life and possessions, just to win your love
Your love and good-will for to have
all I ever wanted was your love and affection
Writer(s): John O'reilly
Contributed by Nathan J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.