On checking the DT for Sweet Thames I noticed a discrepancy in the lyrics. As I have the lyric sheet from the album, I thought I would put the correct words up.
I met my girl at Woolwich Pier, beneath a big crane standing; And O the love I felt for her, it passed all understanding. Took her sailing on the river. - Flow, sweet river, flow. London Town was mine to give her. - Sweet Thames, Flow Softly. Made the Thames into a crown. - Flow, sweet river, flow. Made a brooch of Silver Town. - Sweet Thames, Flow Softly.
At London Yard, I held her hand. At Blackwall Point I faced her. At the Isle of Dogs I kissed her mouth and tenderly embraced her. Heard the bells of Greenwich ringing. - Flow etc. All the time my heart was singing. - Sweet etc. Limehouse Reach I gave her there - Flow etc. As a ribbon for her hair. - Sweet etc.
From Shadwell Dock to Nine Elms Reach, we cheek to cheek were dancing. Her necklace made of London Bridge, Her beauty was enhancing. Kissed her once again at Wapping. - Flow etc. After that, there was no stopping. - Sweet etc. Richmond Park it was her ring. - Flow etc. I'd have given her anything. - Sweet etc.
From Rotherhythe to Putney Bridge, my love I was declaring, And she from Kew to Isleworth, her love for me was swearing. Love it set my heart a-burning. - Flow etc. Never saw the tide was turning. - Sweet etc. Gave her Hampton Court to twist - Flow etc. Into a bracelet for her wrist. - Sweet etc.
But now, alas, the tide has changed. My love she has gone from me. And winter's frost has touched my heart, and put a blight upon me. Creeping fog is on the river. - Flow etc. Sun and moon and stars gone with her. - Sweet etc. Swift the Thames runs to the sea, - Flow etc. Bearing ships and part of me. - Sweet etc.
Written by Ewan MacColl 1966 for the Critics Group Schools broadcast.
I moved this message here from another thread on the same topic. -Joe Offer-