Donna Donna
Donna Donna

Joan Baez - Donna Donna Lyrics

Reflecting on the themes of freedom and existential choice, this song encapsulates the contrast between imprisonment and liberation as symbolized by a calf and a swallow. The calf, bound for an inevitable fate, embodies those trapped by circumstances or… Read more

Singer/Songwriter
Aug 14, 2001
377
Donna Donna Music Video

Donna Donna Lyrics

On a wagon bound for market
There's a calf with a mournful eye
High above him there's a swallow
Winging swiftly through the sky

How the winds are laughing
They laugh with all the their might
Laugh and laugh the whole day through
And half the summer's night

Donna Donna Donna Donna
Donna Donna Donna Don
Donna Donna Donna Donna
Donna Donna Donna Don

"Stop complaining", said the farmer
Who told you a calf to be
Why don't you have wings to fly with
Like the swallow so proud and free

How the winds are laughing
They laugh with all the their might
Laugh and laugh the whole day through
And half the summer's night

Donna Donna Donna Donna
Donna Donna Donna Don
Donna Donna Donna Donna
Donna Donna Donna Don

Calves are easily bound and slaughtered
Never knowing the reason why
But whoever treasures freedom
Like the swallow has learned to fly

How the winds are laughing
They laugh with all the their might
Laugh and laugh the whole day through
And half the summer's night

Donna Donna Donna Donna
Donna Donna Donna Don
Donna Donna Donna Donna
Donna Donna Donna Don

Writer(s): Aaron Zeitlin, Arthur Keuess, Sheldon Secunda, Sholom Secunda, Teddie Schwarz
Copyright(s): Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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What is the Meaning of Donna Donna?

Reflecting on the themes of freedom and existential choice, this song encapsulates the contrast between imprisonment and liberation as symbolized by a calf and a swallow. The calf, bound for an inevitable fate, embodies those trapped by circumstances or societal constraints, unable to understand or escape their plight. In contrast, the swallow represents freedom, soaring high with autonomy and grace. The wind’s laughter underscores a subtle mockery of those who resign themselves to their fate, while celebrating the few who, like the swallow, pursue freedom with vigor and determination. This narrative encourages self-awareness and the courage to transcend limitations, resonating deeply with human aspirations for autonomy. By depicting this dichotomy, the song prompts listeners to ponder their position and inspires a yearning for liberation. #Freedom #ExistentialChoice

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