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Title
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John Barleycorn
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Singer
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Iles, Elijah
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Notes
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Note 1
Williams, Alfred: Ms / WGS: 'John Barleycorn is another ballad that exists in a variety of forms. It is undoubtedly of English origin. The poet Burns gave it a Scotch cast and is said to have improved it, but it will not require a very astute critic to perceive that the English versions, with all their rudeness are much better than the one penned by Burns: they are more pointed, simpler, stronger and truer than his. This ballad was extremely popular in the South, especially at harvest homes. I have given two versions, both current around Highworth and Lechlade. Obtained of Elijah Iles, Inglesham.'
Note 2
In Verse 2 Line 2 the original text read:
With clots upon his head
In Verse 2 Line 4 the original text read:
John Barleycorn was dead
Note 3
Williams, Alfred: RAUT: There is a brief reference to this song being sung by Iles. It is also given the title, 'Jack Barleycorn'.
Transcribed and edited by Chris Wildridge, 2011.
