The Crane Wife

Marianne Faithfull · Other Songs - Marianne Faithfull

And under the boughs unbowed

All holding a snowy shroud

She had no heart, so hardened

All under the boughs unbowed

Each feather, it fell from skin

'Til threadbare and she grew thin

How were my eyes so blinded?

Each feather, it fell from skin

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

A gray sky with bitter skin

A rain cloud would rain on me

All out behind horizon, ohh

A gray sky of bitter skin

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And I will hang my head

Hang my head low

And under the boughs unbowed

All holding a snowy shroud

She had no heart, so hardened

All under the boughs unbowed

The Crane Wife - Marianne Faithfull

Marianne Faithfull's haunting rendition of 'The Crane Wife' stands as a poignant exploration of myth and modern melancholy. Faithfull, renowned for her distinctive voice and introspective songwriting, adapted the traditional Japanese folktale into a sophisticated pop ballad that captures the essence of longing and sacrifice. The recording exemplifies her ability to blend folk storytelling with contemporary R&B sensibilities, creating an atmosphere of quiet desperation that resonates deeply with listeners. As a key track in her discography, the song highlights her versatility as an interpreter of cross-cultural narratives, maintaining an emotional authenticity that defines her artistic legacy.