Linda Connell Studley: Music
Blacksmith
My husband, who blacksmiths, often tells me stories of the history of blacksmiths; their fierce independence, the almost magical aura that surrounds their craft. In olden times they were generally neutral during wars because both sides needed their skills. These skills also provided the Smith with status and standing that demanded respect from peasant and king alike.
“Brilliant.” Gary Fjellgaard
Swing, swing, blacksmith swing
Swing your hammer and make it ring
The blacksmith bows to no one’s king
For the smith, he is the king of the forge
Hard by the forest on the river side
The smithy is dark and hot as hell
With iron and with fire his trade he plied
And his anvil like a bell
Down to the smithy rode a noble lord
With gold coins jingling in his hand
If you’ll make for me a deadly sword
I’ll pay what you demand
The coals blazed hot with Vulcan’s fire
And brought to life a noble blade
The blacksmith forged the lord’s desire
To wield on his crusade
Time came for payment and the lord he said
Now that the blade’s at my command
Why should I not just leave you dead
And keep my gold at hand
The smith swung his hammer and the anvil sang
The blade sang back with awful glee
The sword turned in the traitor’s hand
And whispered “pay for me”