The Clatterin o Clyde's Waters
Unknown Person
Track Information
Original Track ID
SA1987.128
Original Tape ID
Summary
Tragic ballad in which Willie rides out to see his sweetheart Maggie, and must cross the treacherous River Clyde to do so. When he arrives at the river's edge, he asks the Clyde to let him cross, even if it should not permit him to return. When Willie arrives at Maggie's house, she refuses to let him in, as her house is full of guests. He turns to leave, dejected. When he returns to the Clyde, his first step in the water sees him lose his hat, and on bending down to retrieve it, he is taken by the river. His brother urges him to grab hold of his stallion, but cannot stop him from being drowned. Maggie arrives and despairs at his death.
Stanley Robertson learned the song from his great aunt.
Language
Scots
Genre
Collection
Source Type
Reel to reel
Audio Quality
Good