The song "Lemon Tree" by Peter, Paul & Mary tells the story of a young boy who is warned by his father about the dangers of putting too much faith in love, comparing it to a lemon tree. The beauty of the lemon tree and its flowers are highlighted, but the fruit is described as impossible to eat. The boy later falls in love and spends a summer lost in its bliss, but is ultimately betrayed by his love, leaving him sadder but wiser.

Meaning of "Lemon Tree" by Peter, Paul & Mary

The lyrics of "Lemon Tree" use the metaphor of a lemon tree to explore the complexities and challenges of love. The father's warning to his son about not putting too much faith in love suggests a lesson learned from personal experience. The lemon tree symbolizes the allure and sweetness of love, represented by the pretty and sweet lemon flowers. However, the fruit of the lemon tree, which is described as impossible to eat, represents the bitter and disappointing aspects of love. It implies that love may seem attractive and promising, but it can also be full of hardships and disappointments. The narrator's personal experience exemplifies this, as his love leaves without a word, taking away his happiness and leaving behind darkness. The line "she took away the sun" suggests the extreme impact of her departure. The ending of the song reveals that the narrator has become wiser through his experience, as he sings the cautionary words to the listener. Overall, the lyrics emphasize the delicate balance between the beauty and the pain of love, and how it can ultimately lead to personal growth and wisdom.