About the song
Have you ever dreamt of returning to a place that feels like home? A place where you can leave all your worries behind and simply be yourself? Joan Baez’s haunting rendition of “The Green, Green Grass of Home” captures this universal longing with poignant lyrics and a soulful melody.
Released in 1969 as part of her album David’s Album, “The Green, Green Grass of Home” is a country ballad that has been covered by countless artists over the years. Written by Claude “Curly” Putman Jr., the song tells the story of a man who is about to be executed. As he drifts off to sleep, he dreams of returning to his childhood home, where he is greeted by loved ones. The stark contrast between the dreamlike tranquility of his hometown and the harsh reality of his impending death creates a powerful emotional impact.
Baez’s version of the song is particularly noteworthy for her ability to convey a wide range of emotions. Her clear, expressive vocals and gentle guitar accompaniment draw the listener into the story, allowing them to experience the protagonist’s joy, hope, and ultimately, despair. The song’s simplicity belies its depth, and it is this simplicity that has helped it to resonate with audiences for generations.
One of the reasons why “The Green, Green Grass of Home” has endured is its exploration of universal themes. The longing for home, the fear of death, and the power of memory are all emotions that people of all ages and backgrounds can relate to. The song’s timeless quality is also due in part to its evocative imagery. The “green, green grass of home” is a symbol of peace, tranquility, and innocence, while the “four grey walls” of the prison represent confinement and despair.
“The Green, Green Grass of Home” is a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing the people and places that we love. It is a song that can make us laugh, cry, and reflect on our own lives. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Joan Baez or you’re just discovering her music for the first time, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
The old home town looks the same
As I step down from the train
And there to meet me is my mama and my papa
Down the road I look and there comes Mary
Hair of gold and lips like cherries
It’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
The old house is still standing
Tho’ the paint is cracked and dry
And there’s that old oak tree that I used to play on
Down the lane I walk with my sweet Mary
Hair of gold and lips like cherries
It’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
Yes, they’ll all come to meet me, arms reaching, smiling sweetly
It’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
Then I wake and look around me
To the cold gray wall that surround me
And then I realize that I was only dreaming
There’s the guard and the sad old padre
Arm in arm we’ll walk at daybreak
Again I touch the green, green grass of home
Yes, we’ll all be together in the shade of the old oak tree
When we meet beneath the green, green grass of home