Puff, The Magic Dragon
Peter Paul And Mary · Other Songs - Peter Paul And Mary
And froliced in the autumn mist in a land called Honali,
Little Jackie Paper loved that rascal Puff,
and brought him strings and sealing wax and other fancy stuff. Oh
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And froliced in the autumn mist in a land called Honali,
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And froliced in the autumn mist in a land called Honali.
Together they would travel on a boat with billowed sail
Jackie kept a lookout perched on Puff's gigantic tail,
Noble kings and princes would bow whene'er they came,
Pirate ships would lower their flags when Puff roared out his name. Oh!
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And froliced in the autumn mist in a land called Honali,
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And froliced in the autumn mist in a land called Honali.
A dragon lives forever but not so little boys
Painted wings and giant's rings make way for other toys.
One grey night it happened, Jackie Paper came no more
And Puff that mighty dragon, he ceased his fearless roar.
His head was bent in sorrow, green scales fell like rain,
Puff no longer went to play, along the cherry lane.
Without his life-long friend, Puff could not be brave,
So Puff that mighty dragon sadly slipped into his cave. Oh!
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And froliced in the autumn mist in a land called Honali,
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And froliced in the autumn mist in a land called Honali.
Puff, The Magic Dragon
Peter, Paul, and Mary's 1963 recording of 'Puff, The Magic Dragon' stands as a seminal work of folk-rock, blending traditional storytelling with emerging psychedelic sensibilities. The song's narrative follows a young man's journey toward a mythical dragon, a metaphor often interpreted as a cautionary tale about the dangers of drug use, though its allegorical nature remains open to diverse readings. Released during the early counterculture movement, the track became an anthem for the generation seeking to redefine social norms and artistic expression. Its haunting melody and poetic lyrics cemented the trio's legacy, influencing countless subsequent artists across folk, rock, and alternative genres. The recording remains a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its ability to capture the spirit of an era while transcending its specific historical moment to resonate with audiences worldwide.