John Barleycorn is a hero bold
As any in the land.
His fame has stood for ages good
And shall forever stand.
The whole wide world respects him
No matter friend or foe
And where they be that makes too free
He's sure to lay them low!

Chorus:
Hey! John Barleycorn, Ho! John Barleycorn,
Old and young, thy praises sung
John Barleycorn!

To see him in his pride of growth
His robes are rich and green.
His head is brimmed with goodly beer
Fit nigh to serve the Queen.
And when the harvest time comes round
And John is stricken down,
He'll use his blood for England's good
And Englishmen's renown!

Chorus

The Lord in courtly castle,
The Squire in stately home,
The great of name of birth and fame
To John for succour come.
He bids the troubled lad rejoice,
Brings warmth to nature's cold,
Makes weak men strong and old men young
And all men brave and bold!

Chorus

Then shal't forsake John Barleycorn
Nor heed the luscious vine?
I have no mind but child to find
In a potent draught of wine.
Give me my native nut brown ale!
All other drinks I'll scorn!
For English cheer is English beer,
Our own John Barleycorn!

Chorus


- Traditional, from "The Wilson Family Album"