About the song
Peter, Paul and Mary, a trio synonymous with the American folk revival of the 1960s, delivered a timeless performance of “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” during their 25th Anniversary Concert. This iconic song, originally penned by Paul Herrick in 1955, has resonated with audiences for decades due to its poignant lyrics and haunting melody.
The song’s central theme explores the cyclical nature of life and death, symbolized by the disappearance of flowers and the subsequent absence of young men. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society caught in a destructive cycle of war and loss. Herrick’s evocative imagery and the trio’s heartfelt rendition have made this song a powerful anthem for peace and reflection.
Peter, Paul and Mary’s harmonies and instrumentation perfectly complement the song’s somber tone. The gentle strumming of the guitar, the rhythmic accompaniment of the banjo, and the trio’s harmonious vocals create a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere. Their performance captures the essence of the song’s message, conveying a sense of longing and hope.
“Where Have All the Flowers Gone” has endured as a beloved folk classic due to its timeless message and the trio’s iconic rendition. The song’s ability to evoke emotions and inspire thought has solidified its place in the hearts of listeners across generations. As we listen to this powerful performance, we are reminded of the importance of peace, the fragility of life, and the enduring power of music to connect us to our shared humanity.
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Lyrics
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the flowers gone?
Young girls have picked them every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the young girls gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the young girls gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the young girls gone?
Gone for husbands every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the husbands gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the husbands gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the husbands gone?
Gone for soldiers every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Gone to graveyards every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Gone to flowers everyone
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the flowers gone?
Young girls have picked them every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?