The Highwayman

Loreena McKennitt's rendition of 'The Highwayman' is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that tells a tragic love story set against the backdrop of 18th-century England. The song, based on Alfred Noyes' poem, paints vivid imagery of a moonlit night, a dashing highwayman, and his beloved, Bess, the landlord's daughter. The opening lines set a dark and mysterious tone, describing the wind as a 'torrent of darkness' and the moon as a 'ghostly galleon,' creating an eerie atmosphere that foreshadows the impending tragedy.

The highwayman, adorned in elegant attire, arrives at the inn to meet Bess, promising to return with gold by morning. Their love is palpable, and the imagery of Bess plaiting a 'dark red love-knot' into her hair symbolizes their deep connection. However, their love is soon threatened by the arrival of King George's red-coat soldiers, who bind Bess and use her as bait to capture the highwayman. Bess's bravery and sacrifice are heart-wrenching; she manages to free her hands just enough to pull the trigger of the musket, warning her lover with her death.

The highwayman's reaction to Bess's death is one of utter despair and rage. He rides back to the inn, only to be shot down by the soldiers. The song concludes with a ghostly image of the highwayman still riding to the inn on winter nights, a spectral figure bound by love and tragedy. McKennitt's ethereal voice and the haunting melody amplify the emotional weight of the story, making 'The Highwayman' a timeless tale of love, sacrifice, and the supernatural.