The Meaning Behind The Song: Mary Danced with Soldiers by Emmylou Harris
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mary Danced with Soldiers | Emmylou Harris | Unknown | Ballad of Sally Rose | 1985 | Country, Folk | Emmylou Harris, Paul Kennerley |
Meaning of the Song
“Mary Danced with Soldiers” by Emmylou Harris is a poignant ballad that tells the story of a resilient woman named Mary who works at a mill and dances with soldiers. The song explores themes of love, loss, and sacrifice. Throughout the verses, Harris skillfully paints a vivid picture of Mary’s life and her determination to survive despite the hardships she faces.
The song opens with Mary slipping away each day as the light dims, taking care of her child and bidding a sweet goodnight. She works tirelessly at the mill, symbolizing her dedication to providing for her son and the absence of a father figure in their lives. Despite the hardships, Mary finds solace in dancing with soldiers, which brings her joy and momentarily alleviates her worries.
The lyrics suggest that Mary’s happiness is intertwined with a rebel boy who brought her joy. Despite the passage of time, their memories remained strong. However, tragedy strikes when a bullet takes away their chance at lasting romance. The rebel boy gifts Mary a shawl and parasol from France, serving as a symbol of their love and the fleeting happiness she experienced.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Mary becomes the victim of violence. The chorus takes a more somber tone as it describes her spirit slipping away before the dawn. The song poignantly captures the aftermath of this tragedy with the lyric, “But now her body’s still, shawl across her shoulders to keep away the chill.” The shawl that once provided comfort and warmth now serves as a chilling reminder of the tragic outcome of her life.
Personal Connection
This song holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of the resilience and strength of women. Growing up, I witnessed many women in my own family who faced adversity, yet managed to navigate through life with grace and determination. “Mary Danced with Soldiers” speaks to the unyielding spirit that many women possess, as they find solace and express their joy even in the face of difficult circumstances.
Emmylou Harris’s haunting vocals and the poetic lyrics of the song beautifully capture the essence of Mary’s story. The song’s themes transcend time and resonate with anyone who has experienced loss, sacrifice, and the struggle to find moments of joy amidst hardship.
In conclusion, “Mary Danced with Soldiers” is a powerful song that shines a light on the strength of the human spirit and the resilience of women. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and challenges many women face in their lives, evoking empathy and admiration. Through Emmylou Harris’s heartfelt rendition, the song continues to touch the hearts of listeners, reminding us of the enduring power of music to convey profound emotions and stories.
