Aura Lee

1. As the blackbird in the spring, 'neath the willow tree,
Sat and piped I heard him sing, sing of Aura Lee.
Aura Lee, Aura Lee, Maid of golden hair,
Sunshine came along with thee, and swallows in the air.

2. In thy blush the rose was born; music when you spake,
Through thine azure eyes, the morn sparkling seemed to break.
Aura Lee, Aura Lee, birds of crimson wing,
Never song have sung to me, as in that night, sweet spring.

4. Aura Lee, the bird may flee, the willow's golden hair,
Swing through winter fitfully, on the stormy air. 
Yet if thy blue eyes I see, gloom will soon depart,
For to me sweet Aura Lee is sunshine through the heart.

5. When the mistletoe was green, midst the winter's snows,
Sunshine in thy face was seen kissing lips of rose. 
Aura Lee, Aura Lee, take my golden ring,
Love and light return with thee, and swallows in the spring.



Aura Lee was written before the Civil War by W. W. Fosdick, with music by George R. Poulton. It became popular among soldiers because it gave them a happy, light thought to focus on while dealing with the dangers of war. It may give them hope and motivation to get back home to their wives. 

It also provided a sense of camaraderie among the Union and confederate soldiers.  Many nights, both sides would be camped so close to each other, they could hear the other side singing. Sometimes one side or the other would begin singing songs. Then the other side would pick it up, and they were singing together, with a common goal and longing for home. 

Melcher Meitzen, Mary B. "Music of the Confederacy." 2013.