| or Gwenllian's Repose (Erddigan Hun Gwenlliam) Music File Lesley Nelson |
|
|
|
|
| The maid referred to was Gwenllian, the daughter of Rhys ap Gruffydd, Prince of South Wales. She was the first wife of Ednyfed Vychan who was the chief counselor of Llewelyn ab Iorwerth (Llewelyn the Great), Prince of Gwynedd from about 1197 to 1240 and who came to rule most of Wales. Gwenllian was renown for her beauty and intelligence. She died in 1236. |
A gentle maid in secret sigh'd, "Come back, my only love to me Come back, my only love, My only love, to me!" Proud suitors sought her for their bride With vows of truth and constancy, But still the maid for ever sigh'd "My love, I live or die for thee, My love I live or die for thee!" In all bright days of summer time, "Come back my only love to me, Come back my only love, Come back my love, to me." In darkest days of frost and rime, My love I live or die for thee, Live or die for thee." From matin bell to vesper chime, The maiden's sigh would ever be, "My love, I live or die, I live or die for thee!" She lingered pining long, long years, "Come back, my only love to me. Come back my only love, Come back my love, to me." None knew her many bitter tears She shed for one loved faithfully. At rest now from her hopes and fears She sleeps beneath the willow tree. "My love, I live or die, I live or die for thee!" |
Related Links
|
|
|
From
The Songs of Wales The Royal Edition See Bibliography for full information. |
|