About the song
“Peter, Paul and Mary’s ‘Where Have All the Flowers Gone” is a folk-inspired song, written by Pete Seeger and Lee Hays, originally performed by the renowned American musical trio Peter, Paul, and Mary. This heartfelt ballad, released in 1962, has become a timeless classic, resonating with listeners for its poignant lyrics and melody. The song’s narrative tells a story of a young girl’s journey through life’s ups and downs, reflecting on the fleeting nature of time and the passage of seasons, symbolized by the blooming and fading of flowers. The trio’s harmonious vocals and acoustic instrumentation create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere, inviting audiences to reminisce about their own memories and experiences. The song’s chorus, “Where have all the flowers gone, where have all the flowers gone, where’s the springtime since you were young?” questions the fleeting beauty of youth and innocence. The lyrics, with a touch of melancholy, evoke a sense of nostalgia, as the narrator recalls childhood memories and the passage of time. The song’s message, while bittersweet, encourages listeners to cherish the present moments and appreciate the beauty of life’s fleeting moments. The song’s popularity has endured, with numerous covers and interpretations, showcasing its universal appeal. The song’s structure, a traditional AABA form, features a recurring chorus and verses, with a simple yet effective melody, making it easy to sing along. The song’s length, around 2:45 minutes, makes it a perfect addition to any playlist or setlist. It’s a beloved track for folk music enthusiasts and those who enjoy reflective, emotional ballads. The song’s theme, a common one in folk music, speaks to the human experience of growing older and the transience of life’s beauty.
Video
Lyrics
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the flowers gone?
Young girls have picked them every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the young girls gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the young girls gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the young girls gone?
Gone for husbands every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the husbands gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the husbands gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the husbands gone?
Gone for soldiers every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Gone to graveyards every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the graveyards gone?
Gone to flowers everyone
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time passing
Where have all the flowers gone?
Long time ago
Where have all the flowers gone?
Young girls have picked them every one
Oh, when will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?