About the song
*”Where Have All the Flowers Gone,” a timeless anthem by the iconic folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, continues to resonate with listeners decades after its initial release. Originally recorded in 1962, this poignant ballad has become a staple of the folk music canon, its haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics etching themselves into the cultural consciousness.
The song’s narrative unfolds as a series of interconnected questions, tracing the cyclical nature of life and loss. It begins with a simple inquiry about the whereabouts of flowers, only to delve deeper into profound themes of war, mortality, and the enduring human spirit. The lyrics, while deceptively straightforward, carry a weight that invites contemplation and introspection.
Peter, Paul and Mary’s harmonies and acoustic instrumentation perfectly complement the song’s somber tone. Their heartfelt performance imbues the lyrics with a sense of urgency and authenticity, making it easy for listeners to connect with the song’s emotional core. The 1990 live performance captured in this recording offers a unique opportunity to experience the song’s enduring power, as the trio’s voices blend together in a beautiful and evocative tapestry.
Beyond its musical merits, “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” has also become a cultural touchstone, serving as a powerful anti-war statement. The song’s message of peace and hope has resonated with generations of listeners, transcending political boundaries and inspiring countless individuals to strive for a more just and equitable world.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Peter, Paul and Mary or simply appreciate great folk music, “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” is a timeless classic that is well worth revisiting. Its haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics continue to offer a poignant reflection on the human condition, reminding us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Video
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?