Calon Lân

“Calon Lân,” performed by Only Boys Aloud, is a cherished Welsh hymn that speaks to the virtues of a pure and honest heart. The song's lyrics, written in Welsh, emphasize the value of inner goodness over material wealth. The opening lines, “Nid wy'n gofyn bywyd moethus / Aur y byd na'i berlau mân,” translate to “I do not ask for a luxurious life / The gold of the world or its fine pearls.” This sets the tone for the song, highlighting a preference for a happy and honest heart over worldly riches.

The chorus, “Calon lân yn llawn daioni / Tecach yw na'r lili dlos / Dim ond calon lân all ganu / Canu'r dydd a chanu'r nos,” translates to “A pure heart full of goodness / Is fairer than the pretty lily / Only a pure heart can sing / Sing in the day and sing at night.” This metaphorical comparison of a pure heart to a lily underscores the beauty and value of inner purity. The idea that only a pure heart can truly sing, both day and night, suggests that true joy and contentment come from within.

The song continues to explore the theme of spiritual wealth versus material wealth. The lines, “Pe dymunwn olud bydol / Hedyn buan ganddo sydd / Golud calon lân, rinweddol / Yn dwyn bythol elw fydd,” mean “If I wished for worldly wealth / It would be a fleeting seed / The wealth of a pure, virtuous heart / Will bring eternal profit.” This reinforces the message that spiritual and moral integrity are far more enduring and valuable than temporary material gains. The final verse, “Hwyr a bore fy nymuniad / Gwyd i'r nef ar edyn cân / Ar i Dduw, er mwyn fy / Ngheidwad / Roddi i mi galon lân,” translates to “Evening and morning my wish / Rises to heaven on the wing of song / To God, for the sake of my Savior / Give me a pure heart.” This prayerful conclusion encapsulates the song's central plea for a heart that is pure and virtuous, aligning with divine will.