“Believe Me If All Those Endearing Young Charms” is a beloved Irish ballad with origins dating back to the early 19th century. The melody, known as “My Lodging Is On the Cold Ground,” predates the lyrics and was popular in Ireland since at least the late 17th century. The poignant lyrics were written by Irish poet Thomas Moore (1779-1852) and published in 1808 as part of his collection “Irish Melodies.” Moore, often called Ireland’s national bard, wrote the song as a touching tribute to his wife who was reportedly self-conscious about her appearance after being scarred by smallpox.
The song’s enduring message about love transcending physical beauty resonated deeply with audiences, helping it spread throughout Ireland and eventually across the globe. It became especially popular in America during the 19th century and remains a staple in traditional Irish music repertoires today, frequently performed at weddings and special occasions for its timeless sentiment about unconditional love.
Lyrics
Believe me if all those endearing young charms,
Which I gaze on so fondly today,
Were to change by tomorrow and fleet in my arms,
Like fairy gifts, fading away.
Thou wouldst still be adored as this moment thou art,
Let thy loveliness fade as it will,
And around the dear ruin each wish of my heart,
Would entwine itself verdantly still.
It is not while beauty and youth are thine own,
And thy cheeks unprofaned by a tear,
That the fervor and faith of a soul can be known,
To which time will but make thee more dear.
Oh, the heart that has truly loved ne’er forgets,
But as truly loves on to the close,
As the sunflower turns on her god when he sets,
The same look which she gave when he rose.
Believe me if all those endearing young charms,
Which I gaze on so fondly today,
Were to change by tomorrow and fleet in my arms,
Like fairy gifts, fading away.
Thou wouldst still be adored as this moment thou art,
Let thy loveliness fade as it will,
And around the dear ruin each wish of my heart,
Would entwine itself verdantly still.
Leave a reply