I Wish My Baby Was Born (feat. Tim O'Brien & Riley Baugus)

Tim Eriksen's rendition of 'I Wish My Baby Was Born' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love, loss, and longing. The song, featuring Tim O'Brien and Riley Baugus, delves into the deep emotional turmoil of a woman who wishes for her child to be born and to be with its father, even as she contemplates her own death. The repeated phrase 'I wish, I wish' underscores a sense of yearning and unfulfilled desires, painting a picture of a life filled with sorrow and unattainable dreams.

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery that evoke a sense of despair and hopelessness. The line 'Till the sweet apple grows on a sour apple tree' suggests an impossible situation, highlighting the woman's belief that she will never find happiness or fulfillment. The mention of the owl, a symbol often associated with death and foreboding, adds to the song's eerie and melancholic tone. The imagery of blood on the owl's wing and feather further intensifies the sense of dread and sorrow, suggesting a tragic and violent end.

Culturally, the song taps into the traditional American folk music themes of hardship and heartache. Tim Eriksen, known for his work in reviving and preserving traditional American music, brings a raw and authentic emotion to the performance. His collaboration with Tim O'Brien and Riley Baugus adds depth and richness to the song, creating a powerful and moving experience for the listener. The song's timeless themes of love, loss, and longing resonate deeply, making it a poignant and unforgettable piece of music.