“Benton County, Arkansas”

Description

The singer describes a life of surprises and mishaps since leaving (Benton County) at (18). The tavern offers a fine meal but a flea-infested bed. The listener is given advice on how to milk an old ewe. Etc. Uses the "Derry Down" tune

Notes

The various versions of this piece in Randolph are extensive, but hardly add up to a coherent story; "C" in particular looks like it might float. Cohen speculates that the first verse of the "A" text is a graft onto the song. I hope someone can find a fuller version. - RBW

References

1. Randolph 345, "Benton County, Arkansas" (4 texts, 1 tune)
2. Randolph/Cohen, pp. 282-283, "Benton County, Arkansas" (1 text, 1 tune -- Randolph's 34A)
3. Roud #7624
4. BI, R345