Lyrics
Oh fare thee well my own true love
Expressing farewell to a true love.
Fare thee well but for a while
Bidding farewell temporarily.
The ship is waitin' an' the wind blows high
Indicating departure with a waiting ship and strong winds.
An' I am bound away for the sea, Mary Ann
Stating the commitment to set sail for the sea, addressing Mary Ann.
(I am bound away for the sea, Mary Ann)
Repeating the commitment to depart for the sea, emphasizing Mary Ann.
Ten thousand miles away from home
Being far away, possibly in a distant location.
Ten thousand miles or more
Emphasizing the considerable distance from home.
The sea may freeze an' the earth may burn
Describing extreme conditions at sea and on land, suggesting challenges.
If I never no more return to you, Mary Ann
Expressing uncertainty about returning to Mary Ann.
(Never no more return to you, Mary Ann)
Reiterating the uncertainty of returning to Mary Ann.
Oh don't you see that crow fly high
Observing a crow flying high, a symbol that may have significance in the context.
She'll surely turn to white
Suggesting a transformation or change, as white is often associated with purity.
If ever I prove false to you
Warning about the consequences if the speaker proves false to Mary Ann.
Let the day turn to night, my dear Mary Ann
Connecting the falseness to a drastic change, turning day into night.
(Day will turn to night, my dear Mary Ann)
Reiterating the potential for a significant negative change.
Oh, if I had a flask of gin an' sugar here for two
If the speaker had a flask of gin and sugar for two, and a bowl to mix it in, expressing a desire to share a drink.
An' a great big bowl for to mix it in
Detailing the components of the drink, suggesting a gesture of affection.
I'd pour a drink for you, my dear Mary Ann
Expressing the intention to pour a drink specifically for Mary Ann.
(I'd pour a drink for you, my dear Mary Ann)
Repeating the intention to pour a drink for Mary Ann.
Yes I'd pour a drink for you, my dear Mary Ann
Affirming the commitment to pour a drink for Mary Ann.
(Mary Ann)
Repeating Mary Ann's name for emphasis.
(Mary Ann)
-(Mary Ann)
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