Silver Dagger
Dolly Parton · The Grass is Blue
You'll wake my mother
She's sleeping here right by my side
In her right hand is a silver dagger
She says that I can't be your bride
All men are fools
So says my mother
They'll tell you again
Love and lies
And then they'll go
And court someother
Leave you alone to pine inside
My daddy is a handsome devil
He's got a chain five miles long
On every link, a heart does dangle
Of another maid he's loved and wronged, ohhh
Go court another tender maiden
In hopes that she might be your wife
For I've been warned so I decided
I'll sleep alone all of my life, ohh...
Beware, beware, a silver dagger
Silver Dagger
Dolly Parton's "Silver Dagger" stands as a defining track from her 1971 album "The Grass Is Blue," showcasing her mastery of the country-pop fusion that would characterize her career. The song features her distinctive vocal style, blending a strong, clear tone with a rhythmic delivery that emphasizes the narrative of a romantic conflict. Released during a period where Parton was solidifying her status as a leading figure in American country music, the recording captures the emotional intensity of the era's storytelling tradition. As part of her extensive discography, the track remains a staple of her live performances and has been included in various compilations, reflecting its enduring appeal and significance within her body of work.