The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #160549 Message #3808704
Posted By: Steve Gardham
06-Sep-16 - 04:27 PM
Thread Name: Origins: Question about a verse in 'Daemon Lover'
Subject: RE: Origins: Question about a verse in 'Daemon Lover'
In all of the 145 versions given in Bronson the ship simply sinks to the bottom of the sea and there is no hint of this stanza at all. The most likely origin of this verse is Bert Lloyd who invented a whole folk scenario of his own. However in many people's opinions (me included) by and large his interventions are a vast improvement. To me this extra verse adds to the drama at the end of the ballad and is an extension of what is implied in some versions.
As a singer I applaud a great man, but as a researcher I regret he didn't leave us with any indication of which bits were his own creation and therefore his output for researchers into song history is worthless.