About the song
The iconic folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary! Their music has been a staple of American culture for generations, and their songs continue to evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth in listeners of all ages. Among their many beloved hits, “Puff, the Magic Dragon” stands out as a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of millions.
Released in 1963, “Puff, the Magic Dragon” was written by Peter Yarrow and Leonard Lipton, and it quickly became a signature song for the trio. The song’s gentle, lilting melody and poignant lyrics tell the story of a magical dragon who lives in a land called Honahlee, where children would play and laugh together. The song’s narrator, a young boy, befriends Puff and the two share many adventures together, but as the boy grows older, he loses touch with his childhood and forgets about his beloved dragon friend.
The song’s lyrics are a poignant commentary on the fleeting nature of childhood and the importance of holding onto our sense of wonder and imagination. The song’s message is both universal and timeless, speaking to the hearts of listeners of all ages who have ever felt the pangs of growing up and leaving childhood behind.
Peter, Paul and Mary’s harmonies on “Puff, the Magic Dragon” are nothing short of magical, with each vocalist bringing their unique tone and style to the table. Mary Travers’ soaring vocals on the chorus are particularly memorable, adding a sense of urgency and longing to the song’s narrative. The trio’s vocal blend is a hallmark of their music, and “Puff, the Magic Dragon” is a prime example of their ability to craft harmonies that are both beautiful and haunting.
The song’s impact extends far beyond its catchy melody and memorable lyrics. “Puff, the Magic Dragon” has become a cultural touchstone, with references to the song appearing in everything from films and television shows to literature and music. The song’s themes of childhood innocence and the importance of holding onto our sense of wonder have resonated with listeners for generations, making it a true classic of American popular music.
So sit back, relax, and let the gentle magic of “Puff, the Magic Dragon” transport you back to a simpler time, when childhood was a magical and wondrous place. Peter, Paul and Mary’s music has a way of evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth, and “Puff, the Magic Dragon” is a prime example of their ability to craft songs that are both timeless and universal.
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Lyrics
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honah Lee
Little Jackie Paper loved that rascal Puff
And brought him strings, and sealing wax, and other fancy stuff
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Together they would travel on a boat with billowed sail
Jackie kept a lookout perched on Puff’s gigantic tail
Noble kings and princes would bow whenever they came
Pirate ships would lower their flags when Puff roared out his name
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
A dragon lives forever, but not so little boys
Painted wings and giant’s rings make way for other toys
One gray night it happened, Jackie Paper came no more
And Puff, that mighty dragon, he ceased his fearless roar
His head was bent in sorrow, green scales fell like rain
Puff no longer went to play along the cherry lane
Without his lifelong friend, Puff could not be brave
So Puff, that mighty dragon, sadly slipped into his cave
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee
Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist, in a land called Honah Lee