Early One Morning

Nana Mouskouri's rendition of 'Early One Morning' is a poignant ballad that captures the sorrow and betrayal felt by a young maiden. The song opens with the imagery of a serene morning, juxtaposed with the heart-wrenching lament of a girl who has been deceived by her lover. The lyrics, rich with pastoral and natural elements, evoke a sense of innocence and purity that has been shattered by unfaithfulness. The maiden's plea, 'Oh don't deceive me, Oh never leave me,' underscores her vulnerability and the depth of her emotional pain.

The song delves into the theme of broken promises, as the maiden recalls the vows made by her lover and the tender moments they shared. The garland and roses she mentions symbolize the beauty and freshness of their love, now wilted and forsaken. Her wandering and questioning of the roses reflect her inner turmoil and the search for answers in the face of abandonment. The imagery of the grove and the running spring further emphasizes the contrast between the joyous past and her current state of sorrow.

As the song progresses, the maiden's lament becomes a broader commentary on the fleeting nature of love and the fickleness of her former lover. She predicts that he will soon find another maiden, continuing his pattern of seeking new conquests. This cyclical nature of betrayal and the maiden's resigned acceptance of her fate add a layer of melancholy to the song. Mouskouri's emotive delivery and the traditional folk melody enhance the timeless quality of this lament, making it a powerful expression of heartache and loss.