Meaning of "Scarlet Ribbons (For Her Hair)" by Harry Belafonte

"Scarlet Ribbons (For Her Hair)" tells a story of a parent's deep love for their child, as well as the willingness to go to great lengths to fulfill their wishes. The scarlet ribbons symbolize the innocence, purity, and beauty of the child. The parent's inability to find the ribbons reflects the struggles and challenges faced in trying to provide for their child in a harsh world. The sudden appearance of the ribbons on the child's bed hints at the power of belief, faith, and miracles. It showcases the unconditional love between a parent and a child, as well as the magical and mysterious elements of life that cannot always be explained.