Meaning of "Wildwood Flower" by Joan Baez

The lyrics of "Wildwood Flower" by Joan Baez explore themes of love, betrayal, and heartbreak. The speaker starts by painting a picture of beauty and happiness, promising to charm and captivate those around them. However, this facade is shattered when a loved one, who had promised eternal love and devotion, suddenly abandons the speaker without warning or farewell. The pain and anguish of being left behind and neglected are palpable in the words, as the speaker longs to see the one who has caused them so much hurt. The metaphor of the "frail wildwood flower" represents the fragility and vulnerability of the speaker's love and emotions, which were trampled upon by the loved one's callous actions. Overall, the lyrics serve as a poignant reminder of the pain that can come from broken promises and the fleeting nature of love.