Nursery Tale
Allan Taylor · Sometimes/The Lady [2004]
See their happy faces, it seems they're having fun
Ring-a-ring-a-roses and a pocketful of flowers
Singing lots of nursery rhymes to pass away the hours
And sing a song of sixpence, a pocketful of rye
Four and twenty blackbirds were flying in the sky
The children stopped their playing and looked into the air
And four and twenty blackbirds were coming very near
And as the birds drew nearer, the louder was their song
And bitter was their music and bitter was their song
And little Timmy Johnson, he got to fret and frown
Bless you, bless you, we all fall down
Little boy blue, don't blow your horn
There's no cow in the corn
Where is the boy who looks after the sheep
He's under the rubble fast asleep
About Nursery Tale
Allan Taylor's "Nursery Tale" stands as a defining track on the 2004 album *Sometimes/The Lady*, showcasing his mastery of the English folk revival genre. The song exemplifies Taylor's signature style, blending acoustic guitar with a narrative approach that draws upon traditional ballad structures while infusing them with contemporary sensibilities. Released during a pivotal period for his discography, the recording highlights his ability to craft intimate, storytelling pieces that resonate deeply with audiences seeking authentic folk music. As part of his broader catalog, "Nursery Tale" reflects the artistic maturity Taylor achieved in the early 2000s, distinguishing him within the landscape of modern English folk. The track's enduring appeal lies in its melodic simplicity and lyrical depth, offering a glimpse into the personal and cultural themes often explored in his work. It remains a significant example of his contribution to the genre, celebrated for its emotional resonance and technical proficiency.