The lyrics of The Parting Glass date back at least 400 years to the early 17th century – probably before even that. The themes of departure from friends and family are often found in Irish songs – emigration having split millions of families over the years. The Parting Glass captures the sadness of separation but it isn’t a maudlin or depressing song.
There’s an attractive and positive attitude throughout the lyrics that keeps resurfacing amid the sadness of the departure. This is what gives the song its strength and prevents it from becoming over sentimental or slipping into self-pity.
The Irish were accustomed to farewells. They knew life had to go on and that meant making the most of the situation. The words of The Parting Glass reflect that perfectly. The chords are presented here in the key of D minor. Use our chord converter to play the song in other keys.
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Oh, all the comrades ever I had,
They’re sorry for my going away.
And all the sweethearts ever I had,
They’d wish me one more day to stay.
But since it falls unto my lot,
That I should rise and you should not.
I gently rise and softly call,
Good night and joy be with you all.
If I had money enough to spend
And leisure time to sit a while,
There is a fair maid in this town,
That sorely has my heart beguiled.
Her rosy cheeks and ruby lips,
I own she has my heart in thrall,
So fill to me the parting glass,
Good night and joy be with you all.
Parting Glass
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Parting Glass lyrics and chords
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Oh, all the comrades ever I had,
They’re sorry for my going away.
And all the sweethearts ever I had,
They’d wish me one more day to stay.
But since it falls unto my lot,
That I should rise and you should not.
I gently rise and softly call,
Good night and joy be with you all.
If I had money enough to spend
And leisure time to sit a while,
There is a fair maid in this town,
That sorely has my heart beguiled.
Her rosy cheeks and ruby lips,
I own she has my heart in thrall,
So fill to me the parting glass,
Good night and joy be with you all.
Parting Glass
Parting Glass History
Parting Glass videos
Parting Glass lyrics and chords