It was the last day of a bluegrass festival I was at one time. The very last day—that morning where all the fun is over and all that’s left is to break down camp and go home. Everyone is tired. Hungover. Sun is already beating down.
Do not forsake me oh my darling
One of the old men we were camping with was breaking down the big giant carport-style tent we all shared. Big job.
On this, our weddin’ day
We saved it for last, so everyone was starting to chip in. That old man, Billy Ray, was very slowly signing this song.
Do not forsake me, oh my darlin’
Pulling stakes, lowering the poles.
Wait, wait along
It’s this low, slow, somber tune from the movie High Noon with Gary Cooper and Grace Kelly. Tex Ritter sings it. That day, a bunch of festival-worn fellas sang it as a way of saying goodbye.
I do not know what fate awaits me
I only know I must be brave
And I must face a man who hates me
Or lie a coward, a craven coward
Or lie a coward in my grave
Oh, to be torn twixt love and duty
S’posin’, I lose my fair haired beauty
Look at that big hand move along
Nearin’, high noon
He made a vow while in state prison
Vowed it would be my life or his’n
I’m not afraid of death but, oh
What will I do if you leave me?
Do not forsake me, oh my darlin’
You made that promise as a bride
Do not forsake me, oh my darlin’
Although you’re grievin’, don’t think of leavin’
Now that I need you by my side
Wait along, wait along
Just one of those memories I’ll never forget.
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