The Parting Glass

The Parting Glass is a deeply emotional and traditional Irish folk song with a history that spans centuries, though its exact origins are somewhat uncertain. It is often considered one of the last songs sung at social gatherings, particularly in the context of a farewell or at the conclusion of a long evening spent with friends. The song’s lyrics express a mixture of gratitude, melancholy, and well-wishing, making it a fitting tribute to friendships and good times shared.

.

The song is believed to have originated in the 17th or 18th century, though the earliest written reference to The Parting Glass dates back to the late 18th century. It was included in collections of traditional Scottish and Irish folk music, with some versions suggesting that it may have been both an Irish and Scottish song, as it appears in both musical traditions. While the melody has remained relatively consistent, the lyrics have varied over time, with different versions emphasizing different aspects of parting—whether a farewell before a journey, death, or simply the end of a gathering.

.

The Parting Glass was popularized during the 19th century, particularly in Ireland, where it became a beloved song at the end of social gatherings, celebrations, and drinking sessions. The song also holds a special place in the context of Irish wakes and funerals, where it is often sung as a way of bidding a final farewell to a loved one, adding to its deep emotional resonance.

.

Throughout the 20th century, The Parting Glass found its way into the repertoires of numerous Irish folk musicians, including The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, and The Pogues. Its timeless appeal has seen it performed by artists from a variety of genres, with renditions ranging from intimate acoustic versions to more contemporary arrangements. In modern times, it has been embraced as a closing song for events and gatherings, both in Ireland and around the world.

.

Today, The Parting Glass remains a poignant symbol of Irish culture, cherished for its ability to capture the bittersweet nature of farewells and its enduring sense of camaraderie and goodwill. It is regularly performed at Irish music sessions, pubs, and important life events, continuing to move listeners with its heartfelt lyrics and melody.  

Of all the money that e’er I had I spent it in good company And all the harm I’ve ever 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 to you all

.

So fill to me the parting glass And drink a health whate’er befall And gently rise and softly call Good night and joy be to you all

.

Of all the comrades that e’er I had They’re sorry for my going away And all the sweethearts that e’er I had They’d wish me one more day to stay

.

But since it fell unto my lot That I should rise and you should not I gently rise and softly call Good night and joy be to 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 welcomed 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