Scarborough Fair / Canticle by Simon & Garfunkel
“Scarborough Fair / Canticle” by Simon & Garfunkel is a remarkable blend of traditional folk music and modern lyrical composition, first appearing on the duo’s 1966 album, “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme.” The song represents a unique fusion of a British folk ballad, known as “Scarborough Fair,” with a counterpoint of anti-war lyrics written by Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, encapsulated in the “Canticle” portion. This juxtaposition of the old and the new, the mystical and the real, highlights Simon & Garfunkel’s innovative approach to music at the time.
The traditional part of “Scarborough Fair” is based on a centuries-old English ballad that tells the story of a man instructing the listener to convey to his former lover a series of impossible tasks that she must complete if she wishes to be forgiven or to rekindle their love. This song’s historical roots can be traced to the medieval fairs held in the town of Scarborough, Yorkshire. Such fairs were essential in their time for trade and cultural exchange, providing a rich tapestry of events from which the song likely emerged, developing through oral tradition until being collected and documented by folklorists.
The “Canticle” section acts as a lyrical counterpoint sung simultaneously with the traditional melody. It incorporates verses from Simon & Garfunkel’s earlier song “The Side of a Hill,” an anti-war piece which intensifies the poignancy of the composition by contrasting the idyllic, almost dream-like quality of “Scarborough Fair” with the harsh realities of war. This artistic choice enhances the contrast between the serenity of nature, represented by the fair, and the sorrow and destructiveness of human conflict.
Paul Simon learned “Scarborough Fair” from British folk singer Martin Carthy while living in England. Simon was deeply influenced by the British folk scene during his time abroad, and his partnership with Art Garfunkel allowed for an effective and harmonious delivery that resonated with the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Carthy’s version was a significant inspiration, and Simon’s adaptation added a lush musical arrangement that incorporated traditional and baroque folk influences.
Lyrically, “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” is rich in its use of symbolism and metaphors. The recurring herbs – parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme – are believed to have had various symbolic meanings in folklore, thought to represent virtues like comfort, strength, love, and courage. This adds layers of meaning, augmenting the narrative focused on lost love and remembrance. The interplay of those ancient symbols with the anti-war sentiments in “Canticle” interweaves themes of hope, peace, and the ravages of conflict.
Live performances of “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” by Simon & Garfunkel have typically highlighted their exquisite harmonies and musical artistry. The duo performed the song with a delicate balance between faithfully reproducing the studio version and delivering a fresh, emotive live experience. Their performances captured the essence of the 1960s, resonating with audiences drawn to its haunting melody and powerful undertones, reflective of the broader cultural milieu seeking peace and longing for a return to simpler, more harmonious times.
The impact of “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” on music and culture has been substantial. It became a symbol of the 1960s’ folk revival and counterculture movements, influencing countless musicians and artists who sought to merge traditional folk elements with contemporary issues, much like Simon & Garfunkel successfully did. Its enduring popularity speaks to the song’s universal themes and the timeless allure of its melody, weaving its way through both music history and popular culture, appearing in various films and soundtracks, notably in the 1967 film “The Graduate.”
Simon & Garfunkel’s rendition of “Scarborough Fair / Canticle” continues to be celebrated for its artistic depth and emotional impact. It remains an important work that bridges generations, drawing listeners into its mystical narrative while compelling them to reflect on the enduring conflicts and aspirations of humanity. This synthesis of historical and modern themes has solidified its place as a masterpiece within the annals of music history.
