Sweet Violets

Sinead O'Connor · Other Songs - Sinead O'Connor

There once was a farmer, who took a young miss

in back of the barn where he gave her a

lecture

on horses and chickens and eggs

and told her that she had such beautiful

manners

That suited a girl of her charms

A girl that he wanted to take in his

washing and ironing

and then if she did. They could get married and raise lots of



Sweet violets, sweeter than all the roses

covered all over from head to toe

covered all over with sweet violets



the girl told the farmer that he'd better stop

and she called her father and he called a taxi

and got there before very long

'cause someone was doing his little girl

right

for a change and so that's why he said:

"if you marry her, son, you're better off

single

cuz it's always been my belief

that marriage will bring a man nothing but



Sweet violets, sweeter than all the roses

covered all over from head to toe

covered all over with sweet violets



The farmer decided he'd wed anyway

and started in planning for his wedding

suit

which he purchased for only one buck

but then he found out he was just out of

money

and so he got left in the lurch

standing and waiting in front of the

end of the story

Which just goes to show

all a girl wants from a man is his



Sweet violets..

Sweet Violets

Sinead O'Connor's 'Sweet Violets' stands as a poignant example of her early folk-rock period, characterized by her raw vocal delivery and introspective songwriting. Released during the height of her fame, the track exemplifies the genre-blending style that defined her breakthrough era, mixing traditional Irish folk melodies with contemporary rock instrumentation. While often associated with her more controversial political statements, this recording highlights her earlier focus on personal vulnerability and social commentary. The song remains a staple of her discography, showcasing her ability to craft emotionally resonant narratives that have endured over decades. It serves as a testament to her status as a defining voice in alternative music history.