The Parting Glass

Gifted Artist Bethany Howell after recording Parting Glass in Clarksdale

Gifted Artist Bethany Howell after recording Parting Glass in Clarksdale

By POOR WILLIAM
(Clarksdale, Mississippi)

VIDEO OF AUDIO RECORDING IN POST

Oh, how the Irish can combine sorrow and mirth all in one haunting, hair-raising tune. And, oh, how #2 daughter, Bethany, can make her old man cry when he hears her croon.

The audio recording of Parting Glass appeared on my desktop computer two days ago with no fanfare and zero notification. This ole Scots-Irish ballad speaks to the sorrow of parting and the gentle supplication for joy to those left behind.

VIDEO OF AUDIO RECORDING BY BETHANY HOWELL OF PARTING GLASS
[youtube]http://youtu.be/xivG_-FsXKo[/youtube]

Bethany and I have travelled many disparate roads and the search for needed closure inherent with the sadness of chapters closed, coupled with the well-wishing for blessing on those who blessed us and who yet remain, is so well expressed by the Parting Glass.

Bethany’s rendition is as haunting as a Celtic moon on the moors, and the stacking of her voice renders me motionless. Enjoy, and let it speak to you if it will. Cheers!

Parting Glass

Of all the money that e’er I spent,
I spent it in good company.
And all the harm that e’er I’ve done,
Alas! it was to none but me.
And all I’ve done for want of wit
To mem’ry now I can’t recall
So fill to me the parting glass
Good night and joy be with you all.

Of all the comrades that e’er I had,
They are sorry for my going away,
And all the sweethearts that e’er I had,
They would wish me one more day to stay,
But since it falls unto my lot,
That I should rise and you should not,
I’ll gently rise and I’ll softly call,
Good night and joy be with you all.

A man may drink and not be drunk,
A man may fight and not be slain,
A man may court a pretty girl,
And perhaps be welcome back again.
But since it has so ought to be,
By a time to rise and a time to fall,
Come fill to me the parting glass,
Good night and joy be with you all.
Good night and joy be with you all.

Follow Bethany Howell on Instagram @instahowell
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