About the song
“Where Have All the Flowers Gone” by Peter, Paul and Mary is a poignant and timeless song that has left an indelible mark on the folk music landscape. Originally written by Pete Seeger in 1955, this song was later expanded by Joe Hickerson in 1960, and has since been covered by numerous artists. Peter, Paul and Mary’s rendition, released in 1962, is one of the most memorable versions, capturing the essence of the song’s powerful message.
Featured on their album “Moving,” “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” quickly resonated with audiences during a period marked by social and political upheaval. The song’s lyrics, structured in a series of rhetorical questions, reflect on the cyclical nature of war and peace. Each verse poignantly asks where the flowers, young girls, soldiers, and graves have gone, highlighting the senseless repetition of conflict and loss.
Peter, Paul and Mary’s harmonious vocals bring a sense of purity and urgency to the song, enhancing its emotional impact. Their gentle, acoustic arrangement underscores the haunting beauty of Seeger’s lyrics, creating a reflective and somber atmosphere. The trio’s heartfelt performance invites listeners to ponder the consequences of war and the enduring hope for peace.
“Where Have All the Flowers Gone” did not achieve high commercial chart success, but its influence and significance go far beyond numerical rankings. The song became an anthem for the peace movement during the 1960s and continues to be a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict. It has been performed at numerous rallies and events dedicated to promoting peace and social justice, cementing its place as a song of enduring relevance.
Peter, Paul and Mary’s version of “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” exemplifies their ability to bring depth and emotion to their music, making complex social issues accessible through song. Their rendition remains a touchstone for those who seek to understand and convey the profound longing for a world free from war.
For many, this song is more than just a melody; it is a call to reflection and action. Peter, Paul and Mary’s harmonious delivery and the song’s timeless message continue to inspire new generations, reminding us all of the importance of remembering the past as we strive for a more peaceful future.
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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?