Jack in the Green
Jack in the Green is a figure in English (and other folklore) who continues make a regular appearance at ceremonies both in England and abroad in countries like Spain and North America. Not only do the traditional parades survive but in some towns they have been revived where once they fell into disuse, so it would appear that Jack in the Green is making his presence felt more strongly as we are drawn closer to the ideas of sustainable living and care for the environment.
During these celebrations he might be accompanied by the Lord and Lady of May or attendants known as Bogies, and together they celebrate May Day and the coming of Summer. He is, or he has close associations with, the Green Man who embodies the spirit of natural fertility and the green woods. Like so many characters of his type Jack is best described in poetry and song:
“Jack-In-The-Green” from the album Songs From The Wood by Jethro Tull, 1977 (Island Records (UK) Chrysalis Records (US)).
Have you seen Jack-In-The-Green?
With his long tail hanging down.
He sits quietly under every tree —
in the folds of his velvet gown.
He drinks from the empty acorn cup
the dew that dawn sweetly bestows.
And taps his cane upon the ground —
signals the snowdrops it’s time to grow.
It’s no fun being Jack-In-The-Green —
no place to dance, no time for song.
He wears the colours of the summer soldier —
carries the green flag all the winter long.
Jack, do you never sleep —
does the green still run deep in your heart?
Or will these changing times,
motorways, power lines,
keep us apart?
Well, I don’t think so —
I saw some grass growing through the pavements today.
The rowan, the oak and the holly tree
are the charges left for you to groom.
Each blade of grass whispers Jack-In-The-Green.
Oh Jack, please help me through my winter’s night.
And we are the berries on the holly tree.
Oh, the mistlethrush is coming.
Jack, put out the light.
Jethro Tull are still performing after 40 years in the business. Here they are singing Jack in the Green in 1977. Check the band’s website for discography and tour dates.
