Myfanwy Fychan is a historical figure who is believed to have inspired the famous Welsh song “Myfanwy.” The song is a traditional Welsh love ballad with lyrics written by Joseph Parry and the poem by Richard Davies. Joseph Parry, a Welsh composer, set the poem to music in the late 19th century.
The story behind the song revolves around the love between a man, who expresses his deep and enduring affection for Myfanwy, and the woman herself. The lyrics are poignant and convey a sense of longing and unrequited love. Myfanwy Fychan, the woman who inspired the song, is said to have been a noblewoman from the small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, in Gwynedd, Wales
The historical details about Myfanwy Fychan’s life are somewhat limited, and some aspects of the story may be based on local folklore and romanticized traditions. The song “Myfanwy” has become an enduring part of Welsh musical heritage and is often performed in concerts and cultural events, contributing to its status as a beloved and iconic Welsh song.
Myfanwy Was A Poem That Was Turned Into A Song
The song “Myfanwy” has become a cherished part of Welsh cultural heritage and is considered one of the most beautiful and enduring Welsh love songs. It originally came from a poem by Richard Davies, inspired by “Ode to Mafanwy Fachan”, which was written by Hywel ap Einion Llygliw in the 14th century.
The lyrics capture the essence of a deep and abiding love. Joseph Parry, the composer, skillfully set the poem to music, creating a melody that resonates with emotion and has stood the test of time. It is considered a favourite Welsh-language song, and has been performed by choirs across the country for centuries.
The narrative of the song tells the tale of a man expressing his love for Myfanwy Fychan, a woman of nobility who has earned the affection of the nameless narrator. The story is infused with themes of longing, devotion, and the pain of unrequited love, something which has been a key feature in numerous poems throughout Welsh history.
The lyrics are rich in poetic imagery and convey a sense of the speaker’s profound emotional connection to Myfanwy, showing just how strongly Richard Davies felt about the subject of the poem – Myfanwy Fychan.
Who Was Myfanwy Fychan?
Myfanwy Fychan herself is somewhat shrouded in historical mystery. While her existence is acknowledged, specific details about her life and the nature of her relationship with the poet Hywel ap Einion Llygliw are not well-documented.
By the content of the original poem, it would seem that the pair were not in a relationship (in fact, the line “I forget all your words of promise
You made to someone” could imply she was in a relationship with somebody else), and that the poet was lamenting not being with Myfanwy.
It’s important to note that the song may be a blend of historical fact and romanticized fiction, as is often the case with folklore and traditional ballads. We will never know the true meaning of the song, and part of the beauty comes in its ambiguity.
It has been claimed that Myfanwy spurned Hywel ap Einion’s affections, choosing a wealthier, more attractive, and more articulate suitor over him. In response to this romantic setback, the poet penned a poignant ballad expressing his deep yearning and the profound sense of loss he experienced.
Despite the ambiguity surrounding the historical details, “Myfanwy” has become a symbol of Welsh romanticism and a testament to the country’s rich musical tradition.
The song has been performed by countless artists and choirs (including the Treorchy Male Voice Choir), and its popularity endures both in Wales and among Welsh communities around the world. It has become an integral part of Welsh cultural events, celebrations, and concerts, contributing to its status as a beloved and iconic piece of Welsh musical heritage.
