Tavern

Song Meaning

This song paints a picture of a secluded haven, a tavern nestled "below the high hill's crest." It's a place specifically designated for "grey-eyed people" to find respite. The narrator promises abundant food and drink, offering comfort against the elements with "plates a-plenty" and "mugs to melt the chill." The central tension arises from the narrator's dedication to this sanctuary, even as they personally remain awake. While travelers "sound will sleep" and "dream his journey's end," the narrator is tasked with tending the "falling fire." This suggests a quiet, perhaps lonely, commitment to maintaining the warmth and safety of the tavern for others. The most striking element is the revealed motivation behind this curious fancy. The narrator explicitly states, "all the good I know / Was taught me out of two grey eyes / A long time ago." This repetition emphasizes that the act of providing rest and comfort is a direct echo of a past lesson, learned from a specific, significant individual. Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they articulate a selfless act of service rooted in a profound, formative experience. The narrator's labor isn't just about hospitality; it's a tribute, a way of honoring a past connection by extending its warmth to strangers who share a simple, distinguishing trait.