The narrative centers on an elderly man whose wife is restless and enjoys a life of leisure and socializing, often leaving him alone at home. The poem begins with the old man's lament that he cannot keep his wife at home, as she prefers to roam freely, indulging in fine food and drink while he is left with the leftovers. Her carefree spirit is highlighted as she revels in her independence, dancing and celebrating life. As the story progresses, the old man's loneliness and frustration grow. He is depicted as frail and confined, contrasting sharply with his wife's vivacity. She goes out to dine, leaving him in bed, and her joy is palpable as she enjoys the company of others. The old man, in his solitude, attempts to cope with his situation by drinking thin beer and reflecting on his wife's escapades. The climax occurs when the wife returns home, and in a twist of fate, a stone that the old man had placed above the door falls on her head, resulting in her death. This tragic turn underscores the consequences of her gadding about and the old man's inability to control her actions. The final refrain emphasizes his loss, as he is now left without a wife who loved to roam, encapsulating the themes of freedom, loss, and the complexities of marital relationships in old age.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Folk Song