John Barleycorn

John Barleycorn is a hero bold as any in the land,
For ages good his fame has stood, and will for ages stand;
The whole wide world respect him, no matter friend or foe,
What ‘er they be that make , he’s sure to lay them low.

Chorus
Hey John Barleycorn, ho John Barleycorn,
Old and young thy praise have sung, “John Barleycorn”

Now see him in his pride of growth, his robes all rich and green,
His head is spread with prickly beard, fit knight to serve a queen,
And when the reaping time comes round, and John is stricken down,
He yields his blood for England’s good, and Englishmen’s renown.
Hey John Barleycorn &c.

The lord in courtly castle, and the squire in stately hall,
The great of name, of birth and fame on John for succour call;
He bids the troubled heart rejoice, gives warmth to natures cold,
Makes weak men strong, and old ones young, and all men brave and bold.
Hey John Barleycorn &c.

The shout for great John Barleycorn, nor heed the luscious vine,
I’ve not the mind much charm to find in potent draughts of wine,
Give me my native nut brown ale, all other drinks I scorn,
True English cheer is English beer, our own John Barleycorn.
Hey John Barleycorn &c.