The Meaning Behind The Song: The Praties They Grow Small by Carolyn Hester

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The Meaning Behind The Song: The Praties They Grow Small by Carolyn Hester

[Verse 1]
Oh, the praties they grow small
Over here, over here
Oh, the praties they grow small
And we dig them in the fall
And we eat them coats and all
Over here, over here

[Verse 2]
Oh, we’re trampled in the dust
Over here, over here
Oh, we’re trampled in the dust
But the Lord in whom we trust
Will give us crumb for crust
Over here, over here

[Verse 3]
Oh, I wish that we were geese
Night and morn’, night and morn’
Oh, I wish that we were geese
For they fly and take their ease
And they live and die in peace
Eatin’ corn, eatin’ corn

[Verse 1]
Oh, the praties they grow small
Over here, over here
Oh, the praties they grow small
And we dig them in the fall
And we eat them coats and all
Over here, over here

Album title: This Life I’m Living (1963)

Table:

TitleArtistWriter/ComposerAlbumRelease DateGenreProducer
The Praties They Grow SmallCarolyn HesterTraditionalThis Life I’m LivingMarch 1963Pop/FolkJohn Hammond

This song is believed to be written during and is about the Irish potato famine. The lyrics depict the struggles of the Irish people during this devastating time in history. “Praties” refer to potatoes, which were a staple crop for the Irish population. However, the famine caused the potatoes to grow smaller and smaller, leading to scarcity and hunger.

Through the lyrics, the song portrays the harsh reality faced by the Irish people. The first verse emphasizes the small size of the potatoes, highlighting their insufficient nutritional value. Despite this, the Irish people diligently dig them in the fall and consume them, coats and all, to survive. It showcases their perseverance and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

The second verse talks about being “trampled in the dust,” representing the oppression and hardship faced by the Irish population during the famine. However, the song also expresses hope and faith in the Lord, who will provide for them even with the bare minimum. The reference to receiving a “crumb for crust” signifies the belief that even the smallest provision can sustain them in difficult times.

The third verse introduces a longing for freedom and peace. The singer wishes to be like geese, able to fly and take their ease. Geese symbolize a sense of freedom and security as they live and die peacefully, enjoying their simple diet of corn. This stanza highlights the desire for a better life and reflects the collective aspiration of the Irish people during the famine.

Personally, this song holds great significance for me. Growing up in an Irish-American household, I have always been aware of my roots and the struggles of my ancestors. The Praties They Grow Small encapsulates the resilience and determination of the Irish people, reminding me of the hardships they endured.

As I listen to this song, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the strength of my heritage. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength and hope. The lyrics resonate with me on a deep level, reminding me of the importance of resilience and perseverance in my own life.

The haunting melody and emotive rendition by Carolyn Hester further enhance the impact of the song. Her expressive voice brings out the raw emotions and depth of the lyrics, allowing listeners to truly connect with the plight of the Irish people during the potato famine.

In conclusion, The Praties They Grow Small by Carolyn Hester is a powerful folk song that sheds light on the hardships faced by the Irish population during the potato famine. Through its poignant lyrics, it tells the story of a resilient people enduring scarcity, oppression, and the longing for a better life. It serves as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of hope, resonating with listeners and evoking a profound sense of gratitude and pride.

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