The song is a long one and is well-written. In discussing the “lessons” learned, the protagonist of the song, “Francis Tolliver” from Liverpool, concludes “the ones who call the shots won’t be among the dead and lame…And on each end of the rifle we’re the same.” This particular song was recorded on a CD entitled, “Winter Solstice.”
John McCutcheon is a talented songwriter who is very clever with language. I did not realize that he is a contemporary folksinger who is still recording and has been prolific in his production of CDs. He has also won Grammy awards. Finding out all of that, over the weekend, makes me wonder where I have been all this time, that I did not know any of that!
The words to the song in question can be found in various places online, but as far as I know, there is no mp3 available to hear online. Some of John’s most recent songs are available to read and/or listen to on the mp3 section of his website.
I have loved folk music all of my life. It is wonderful that new folksongs are being written, especially those that commemorate historical events. McCutcheon is following a long tradition set by other folksingers, that of “speaking out.” At times, this action has resulted, reportedly, in some folksingers being investigated by the government. Previously, there had been a commitee for the investigation of un-American activities.
We need the new folksingers of today, just as in my generation we needed Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, and others who “sang out” about war.
I just thought I’d bring the song, “Christmas in the Trenches” to your attention. The words and music are refreshing, and the song is truly a treasure.
If you have an interest, I have posted an amazon link for the CD on a separate page. Just click on “more” below, and press the back button to return to reading the blog.
Patricia
