About the song
“Puff, the Magic Dragon,” a timeless folk song, resonates with audiences worldwide through its whimsical tale and heartfelt melodies. Written by Leonard Lipton as a poem in 1959 during his time at Cornell University, the song’s lyrics were later set to music by Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary. Released in January 1963, the trio’s rendition of “Puff, the Magic Dragon” quickly captured the hearts of listeners with its evocative storytelling and gentle acoustic arrangement.
The lyrics paint a narrative of Puff, an ageless dragon, and his companion Jackie Paper, a young boy who grows up and leaves behind the adventures of childhood. Set in the mythical land of “Honah Lee” by the sea, the song explores themes of nostalgia, innocence lost, and the passage of time—a universal coming-of-age story that resonates with listeners of all ages.
Despite its innocent origins, “Puff, the Magic Dragon” sparked controversy and speculation in the 1960s regarding alleged drug references, which the song’s creators vehemently denied. The misinterpretation arose from wordplay involving “Puff,” “Jackie Paper,” and phrases like “by the sea,” misconstrued to imply references to marijuana use. However, both Lipton and Yarrow consistently clarified that the song was purely about childhood innocence and the bittersweet experience of growing up.
The song’s impact transcended controversy, becoming a chart-topping hit for Peter, Paul and Mary. It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Adult Contemporary charts in the United States. In Canada, it reached number five on the charts, solidifying its popularity across North America and beyond.
Over the years, “Puff, the Magic Dragon” has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous cultural contexts, from children’s programs to film soundtracks, maintaining its relevance and charm. Its enduring legacy lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and sentimentality, reminding listeners of the fleeting nature of youth and the enduring power of imagination.
As a quintessential piece of folk music history, “Puff, the Magic Dragon” continues to enchant new generations with its timeless melody and evocative storytelling, firmly securing its place in the pantheon of beloved children’s songs and folk classics.
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Lyrics
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honah Lee
Little Jackie Paper loved that rascal Puff
And brought him strings, and sealing wax, and other fancy stuff
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Together they would travel on a boat with billowed sail
Jackie kept a lookout perched on Puff’s gigantic tail
Noble kings and princes would bow whenever they came
Pirate ships would lower their flags when Puff roared out his name
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
A dragon lives forever, but not so little boys
Painted wings and giant’s rings make way for other toys
One gray night it happened, Jackie Paper came no more
And Puff, that mighty dragon, he ceased his fearless roar
His head was bent in sorrow, green scales fell like rain
Puff no longer went to play along the cherry lane
Without his lifelong friend, Puff could not be brave
So Puff, that mighty dragon, sadly slipped into his cave
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee