Shady Grove
The Chieftains Lyrics

The lyrics of "Shady Grove" by The Chieftains tell the story of a young man who is deeply in love with a girl named Shady Grove. He describes her physical features, such as her rosy cheeks and dark brown eyes, and professes his affection for her, calling her the darling of his heart and the sweetest little thing in town. However, he sadly acknowledges that he is bound to go away, implying that their relationship is either temporary or faced with obstacles.

In the second verse, the singer visits Shady Grove and finds her standing at the door with her shoes and socks in her hands, her bare feet on the floor. This image suggests a sense of spontaneity and simplicity in their encounters, as if they enjoy being carefree and unburdened. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the inevitability of the singer's departure.

The third verse reveals the singer's longing for Shady Grove to be his wife. As a child, he desired a Barlow knife, a type of pocket knife, but now his desire is for a committed and loving relationship with Shady Grove. Once again, the chorus is repeated, expressing the singer's impending departure.

The fourth verse uses the imagery of peaches in summertime and apples in fall to illustrate that if the singer cannot have the one he loves (Shady Grove), then he would rather have nothing at all. This reflects the depth of his feelings and the realization that other things may pale in comparison to the love he desires.

The final verse introduces the metaphor of the mournful dove flying from pine to pine, symbolizing the singer's own grief for his lost love. He mourns for her just as the dove mourns for its own true love. The chorus is sung one last time, reinforcing the singer's decision to leave.

Overall, "Shady Grove" is a bittersweet love song that captures the intensity and longing of a relationship that may face separation or difficulty. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, simplicity, and devotion, showcasing the deep emotions associated with love and departure.