Composer

:

English Traditional

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

6:26

"The Cruel Mother" is a traditional English ballad that tells the story of a mother who kills her own children. The ballad is believed to have originated in the 17th century and has been passed down through generations of English folk singers. The ballad has been performed by many artists over the years, including Joan Baez, Pentangle, and Fairport Convention. It has also been adapted into various forms, including a play by Timberlake Wertenbaker and a novel by Margaret Atwood. The ballad is typically performed in three movements. The first movement sets the scene and introduces the characters. The second movement describes the mother's actions and the murder of her children. The third movement deals with the aftermath of the crime and the mother's eventual punishment. The ballad is characterized by its haunting melody and dark subject matter. The lyrics are often sparse and repetitive, emphasizing the bleakness of the story. The ballad is also notable for its use of symbolism, particularly in the description of the mother's actions. Overall, "The Cruel Mother" is a powerful and haunting ballad that has endured for centuries. Its themes of maternal love and betrayal continue to resonate with audiences today.

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