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Songs, English -- Texts Books
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The Golden Treasury Of the Best Songs and Lyrical Poems in the English Language
"The Golden Treasury" by Francis Turner Palgrave is a collection of the best songs and lyrical pieces in the English language, compiled during the mid-19th century. This anthology seeks to encapsulate and celebrate the essence of English poetry, focusing on works that convey deep emotion and thought, primarily through lyrically poignant expressions. It aims to provide readers with lasting aesthetic pleasure and enrich their love for poetry. The opening of the anthology begins with a dedication to Alfred Tennyson, acknowledging those influential in the realm of poetry. Palgrave introduces his collection, discussing its unique aim to gather only the finest lyrical pieces not by living poets, reflecting on the surprisingly delicate balance between emotional expression and the choice of pieces. He outlines his criteria for inclusion, emphasizing that he intends to create a resource that resonates with readers who cherish poetry, while simultaneously addressing the potential criticisms of selection and content. The preface further elaborates on the historical organization of the works, hinting at a journey through various styles and eras that have shaped English lyrical poetry.
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The Golden Treasury Selected from the Best Songs and Lyrical Poems in the English Language and arranged with Notes
"The Golden Treasury" by Francis Turner Palgrave is an anthology of English poetry first published in 1861. This influential collection spans centuries of verse, from Elizabethan sonnets to Romantic odes, organized into thematic books. Revised with input from Tennyson and later editors, it excludes living poets while showcasing literary masters like Shakespeare, Milton, Wordsworth, and Keats. Continuously updated with supplements of newer works, this enduring treasury has shaped generations' understanding of English poetry's finest achievements.
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Choyce Drollery: Songs and Sonnets Being a Collection of Divers Excellent Pieces of Poetry, of Several Eminent Authors.
"Choyce Drollery: Songs and Sonnets" by Joseph Woodfall Ebsworth is a collection of poetry, specifically songs and sonnets, that was compiled during the late 19th century but originates from an earlier collection published in the 17th century. This compilation features various lyrical pieces from several eminent authors, aiming to capture the poetic essence of the Restoration period, along with additional contributions from the later 1661 publications "Merry Drollery" and "Antidote Against Melancholy." It serves to preserve not only the poetic grace but also the historical sentiments of loyalty and love for the monarchy, reflecting a time of civil unrest and seeking solace in art. The opening of the collection sets the stage for exploring the literary landscape of 1656 against the backdrop of England's troubled history, referencing the political upheaval and the emotional struggles of Royalists. Ebsworth introduces the collection with a prelude that poetically mourns the Cromwellian era while evoking nostalgia for the lost freedoms of the past, positioning the poems within a historical narrative that highlights the conflict between loyalty to the crown and the reality of the Commonwealth. The first poem, alongside the editorial reflections, echoes themes of unrequited love, broken hearts, and loyalty against the backdrop of civil war, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the emotional tapestry of an era where poetic expression served as both a refuge and a statement against tyranny.
W. S. (William Schwenck) Gilbert
The Bab Ballads, with Which Are Included Songs of a Savoyard
"The Bab Ballads, with Which Are Included Songs of a Savoyard" by W. S. Gilbert is a collection of light verse published between 1869 and 1898. These humorous poems, illustrated by Gilbert himself, develop his signature "topsy-turvy" style—establishing ridiculous premises and following them to absurd logical conclusions. Written before Gilbert became famous for his comic operas with Arthur Sullivan, the ballads showcase his cynical wit and later provided source material for the beloved Gilbert and Sullivan works. The verses became wildly popular, performed at private gatherings and public events alike.
John Stephen Farmer
Musa Pedestris - Three Centuries of Canting Songs and Slang Rhymes [1536 - 1896]
"Musa Pedestris - Three Centuries of Canting Songs and Slang Rhymes" collected and annotated by John S. Farmer is a compilation of songs and rhymes focusing on canting and slang, spanning roughly from the early 16th century to the late 19th century. This unique work delves into the vibrant and often overlooked realm of English slang and its use among various societal groups, particularly the fringes of society who employed such language as a means of expression and communication. The opening of the anthology introduces the notion of cant as integral to the vernacular of marginalized groups, crying out for recognition as more than mere folly. The foreword highlights the literary significance and the cultural context of these canting expressions. It discusses the evolution of slang and cant, underscoring their reflections of social life and commentary on societal norms. Various excerpts from canting songs portray the lives of beggars, thieves, and rogues, illuminating their lifestyles and attitudes. Notable pieces include "A Beggar I'll Be," which romanticizes the carefree life of a beggar, and "The Beggar's Curse," which critiques law enforcement's impact on the lives of the impoverished. Together, these excerpts create a rich tapestry that illustrates the historical landscape of English slang across three centuries.
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English Songs and Ballads
"English Songs and Ballads" by T. W. H. Crosland is a compilation of well-known poetic pieces from various authors, indicating its origin in the late 19th to early 20th century. This collection brings together English songs and ballads that are likely to resonate with the general taste, rather than the compiler's individual preferences. It serves as an anthology of celebrated works that reflect the rich heritage of English poetry. The opening of the anthology presents a note that outlines the compiler's intention to curate poems that resonate with a broad audience. Following this, an index of first lines gives readers an immediate overview of the diverse selection within the collection, spanning various themes and emotions expressed in English poetry. The first excerpt introduces a song titled "My Swete Sweting," showcasing themes of love and affection, while also hinting at other poetic works included in the compilation. The collection overall serves as a window into the poetic landscape of English literature, illustrating the emotional depth and stylistic variety present in traditional songs and ballads.
Various
Beadle's Dime Song Book No. 3 A Collection of New and Popular Comic and Sentimental Songs.
"Beadle's Dime Song Book No. 3" by Various is a collection of comic and sentimental songs likely written in the mid-19th century. The anthology showcases a wide range of songs that resonate with themes of love, loss, and the joys of life, appealing to a diverse audience through its light-hearted and emotional content. The opening of the collection introduces the reader to the format and organization of the book, along with the first few songs. Each piece features lyrical expressions of various themes, such as the longing of a sailor's life, the pain of loss, and the nostalgia of youth. The songs are characterized by simple yet evocative language, often accompanied by catchy choruses, making them easy to remember and sing along. Through titles like "I’d Choose to be a Daisy" and "The Death of Annie Laurie," the reader gets a glimpse into both the humorous and poignant aspects of 19th-century American life, setting a tone that celebrates both whimsy and sentimentality.
Various
Beadle's Dime Song Book No. 5 A Collection of New and Popular Comic and Sentimental Songs
"Beadle's Dime Song Book No. 5" by Various is a collection of new and popular comic and sentimental songs written in the mid-19th century. This anthology captures the spirit of the era through a diverse mix of lyrical themes, showcasing the joys and sorrows of life, love, and social commentary. The songs reflect a range of emotions, from romance and nostalgia to humor and social critique, aiming to entertain and resonate with the readers and performers of the time. At the start of this collection, the reader is introduced to a selection of songs that cover a multitude of topics. One song highlights a romantic encounter during a moonlit walk, while another dives into the heartfelt sentiments of a fisherman’s girl as she mourns her lost loved ones. The opening portion of the book features various themes, including the bittersweet nature of parting, the struggles of love, hopeful yearnings, and the humor found in everyday situations. Each piece is designed to evoke specific emotions and situations, making this collection a delightful resource for both entertainment and reflection.
W. S. (William Schwenck) Gilbert
Songs of a Savoyard
"Songs of a Savoyard" by W. S. Gilbert is a collection of humorous and satirical poems written in the late 19th century. The book reflects Gilbert’s characteristic wit and criticism of Victorian society through playful verses and songs that often poke fun at social norms, politics, and human behavior. At the start of the collection, readers encounter a series of lively and entertaining poems that introduce various characters and situations, such as sailors, high-ranking officers, and whimsical anecdotes. The opening poem, "The Darned Mounseer," sets the tone with a light-hearted depiction of a naval encounter with a Frenchman, highlighting the jovial spirit of competition and camaraderie among sailors. Other initial pieces like "The Englishman" and "The Disagreeable Man" further exemplify Gilbert's knack for juxtaposing humor with societal observations, drawing readers into a delightful blend of character sketches and musicality that invites laughter and reflection alike.
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Old Songs
"Old Songs" by Edwin Austin Abbey, Edmund Spenser, George Wither, and Alfred Parsons is a collection of traditional songs and poems illustrated by Abbey and Parsons, published during the late 19th century. This anthology captures the essence of rural life and romantic sentiments typical of English folk tradition, presenting a compilation of lyrical pieces that explore themes of love, nature, and human emotions. The book features a variety of engaging poems that convey the joys and sorrows of love, often set against pastoral backgrounds. Among the highlighted pieces are "A Love Song" by George Wither, which expresses longing and heartbreak, and "Barbara Allen," a poignant tale of love and regret. The collection integrates lighthearted songs that celebrate simple pleasures, such as "Sally in Our Alley," alongside more somber reflections on love's challenges. The illustrations serve to enhance the lyrical content, making "Old Songs" a delightful combination of visual and literary artistry that resonates with readers who appreciate the timeless themes of love and human experience.
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English Songs and Ballads
"English Songs and Ballads" by T. W. H. Crosland is a collection of poetic works compiled in the early 20th century. This anthology brings together a variety of English songs and ballads that are presumably well known and highlights the general taste of its time. The collection aims to provide readers with a diverse array of lyrical poetry reflecting love, adventure, and human experience, featuring both famous authors and anonymous works. The opening of the collection sets the stage by introducing a well-structured index of first lines from the poems featured within. This index not only provides easy navigation but also showcases the extensive range of themes present in the poems, from love and nature to tales of valor and loss. The initial poems delve into sentiments of love and loss, illustrated by lyrical expressions that embody the emotional landscape of both individual experiences and broader humanistic themes. The opening clearly establishes the anthology as a vibrant testament to the rich tradition of English lyrical poetry.
W. S. (William Schwenck) Gilbert
Bab Ballads and Savoy Songs
"Bab Ballads and Savoy Songs" by W. S. Gilbert is a collection of humorous poems and songs written in the late 19th century. This work showcases Gilbert's wit and satirical commentary on various aspects of society, ranging from love and marriage to social status and absurdity in everyday life. The poems include a variety of characters and scenarios, each delivering clever rhymes and engaging narratives that reflect the author's sharp sense of humor. The opening portion introduces a series of whimsical ballads, beginning with "The Yarn of the 'Nancy Bell'," where an elderly naval man recounts a darkly comedic tale of survival at sea, touching on themes of desperation and cannibalism. It unfolds with lively descriptions of seafaring life and eccentric characters, setting the tone for the collection. Each ballad follows a different amusing narrative or character, hinting at Gilbert's skill in blending comedic elements with social critique, making the opening an engaging invitation into the humorous world of his verse.
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