Johnny Has Gone for a Soldier Anonymous

Coming of Age Coming of age can bring about new opportunities and experiences, but it also involves new responsibilities and challenges. A challenge that many young adults have had to face is war. When countries go to war, they usually send young people to do the fighting. This changes the lives not only of the young soldiers, but also of the loved ones they leave behind. The folk song Johnny Has Gone for a Soldier dates back to the Revolutionary War, in which many young people died for the cause of freedom. This song expresses the sadness and fear felt by those whose loved ones have gone off to war.

Coming of Age Johnny Has Gone for a Soldier Lyrics There I sat on Buttermilk Hill, Who could blame me cry my fill; And evry tear would turn a mill; Johnny has gone for a soldier. Me oh my, I loved him so, Broke my heart to see him go, And only time will heal my woe; Johnny has gone for a soldier. Ill sell my flax, Ill sell my wheel, Buy my love a sword of steel So it in battle he may wield; Johnny has gone for a soldier. As you listen to the song and read the lyrics, respond to the following questions: How would you describe the mood of this song? How is it different from other folk songs you may have heard? Do you think this song fits the theme Coming of Age? Explain your answer.