The Mummer's Dance

Loreena McKennitt's 'The Mummer's Dance' is a lyrical journey that transports listeners to a time of ancient traditions and the celebration of spring. The song is steeped in imagery that evokes the renewal and vibrancy of the season. The opening lines set the scene in the 'springtime of the year,' where trees are adorned with fresh leaves and ribbons, symbolizing new beginnings and the beauty of nature coming back to life. The mention of specific trees like ash, oak, birch, and yew adds a layer of depth, as these trees often hold symbolic meanings in various cultures, representing strength, endurance, and rebirth.

The song's narrative follows a group of people who have been 'rambling all the night' and are now returning with a 'garland gay,' a festive wreath that signifies joy and celebration. This act of bringing a garland can be seen as a metaphor for sharing the fruits of their journey and the blessings of the season with their community. The imagery of owls calling to the 'breathless moon' and shadows appearing amidst lantern lights creates a mystical atmosphere, suggesting a connection between the natural world and the spiritual or otherworldly.

The communal aspect of the song is highlighted in the lines where people link hands and dance in circles and rows, a traditional form of celebration that fosters unity and togetherness. The repetition of the phrase 'we've been rambling all the night' emphasizes the journey and the effort put into this celebration, making the return and the sharing of the garland even more meaningful. The song concludes with a sense of fulfillment and reverence for the natural world, as the garland is described as 'the work of our lord's hand,' acknowledging a higher power's role in the beauty and bounty of spring.