Murder Ballad

A murder ballad is an Appalachian (or Celtic) folksong about, well, murder. A murder is also a gathering of crows.

“Murder Ballad”

 

We ravens sit atop this tree,

We wait with beak and claw –

If we should turn our eyes on you

Our song you’ll hear us caw,

 

“Maidenhead, maidenhead

Here comes your thief –

Your time here is waning,

Your time here is brief.”

 

“Motherhood, motherhood,

Time’s come for tears –

We’re stealing your only,

We’re bringing your fears.”

 

“Ó Crone ó, ó Crone ó,

You wait without fright –

You will be disappointed

As we pass by this night.”

 

We ravens sit atop this tree,

We wait with claw and beak –

If we should turn and sing to you

The cold grave shall you seek.