About the Song
“Lemon Tree” by Peter, Paul and Mary is a delightful folk song that was released in 1965 as part of their album In the Wind. Originally written by German composer and lyricist Willi Wöhrmann, the song gained widespread popularity through the trio’s soulful rendition, characterized by their rich harmonies and heartfelt delivery.
At its core, “Lemon Tree” reflects themes of longing and unfulfilled dreams, using the metaphor of a lemon tree to explore feelings of disappointment and melancholy. The imagery of the tree, with its bright lemons yet sour taste, perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet nature of life and love. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning, as the narrator contemplates the complexities of existence, caught between hope and reality.
The arrangement features gentle guitar strumming and a soft melody that enhances the song’s reflective mood. Peter, Paul and Mary’s signature harmonies add depth and warmth, making the listener feel a personal connection to the emotions expressed. Their ability to convey a sense of simplicity while exploring profound themes is a hallmark of their music.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal message and relatable sentiments. It resonates with anyone who has ever felt the sting of disappointment or the weight of unfulfilled aspirations. Over the years, “Lemon Tree” has been covered by various artists, further solidifying its place in the folk music canon.
In a broader context, “Lemon Tree” reflects the spirit of the 1960s, a time when folk music was intertwined with social consciousness and a quest for deeper meaning. Peter, Paul and Mary’s rendition not only popularized the song but also helped to introduce a wider audience to the folk genre, emphasizing the power of storytelling through music.
In summary, “Lemon Tree” stands as a testament to Peter, Paul and Mary’s talent for capturing the intricacies of human emotion. Its evocative lyrics and beautiful harmonies ensure that it remains a beloved classic, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of hope, longing, and the bittersweet nature of life. Whether enjoyed in a moment of solitude or shared among friends, the song continues to resonate, reminding us of the beauty and complexity found in our everyday journeys.
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Lyrics: “Lemon Tree”
When I was just a lad of ten, my father said to me,
“Come here and take a lesson from the lovely lemon tree.”
“Don’t put your faith in love, my boy”, my father said to me,
“I fear you’ll find that love is like the lovely lemon tree.”Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.
Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.One day beneath the lemon tree, my love and I did lie
A girl so sweet that when she smiled the stars rose in the sky.
We passed that summer lost in love beneath the lemon tree
the music of her laughter hid my father’s words from me:Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.
Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.One day she left without a word. She took away the sun.
And in the dark she left behind, I knew what she had done.
She’d left me for another, it’s a common tale but true.
A sadder man but wiser now I sing these words to you:Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.
Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.