“The Cuckoo” is a traditional English folk song with roots tracing back to at least the 18th century, though its precise origin is unknown. Often categorized as a “floating verse” ballad, it exists in many lyrical and melodic variants across Britain and the United States, especially in the Appalachian tradition. The song typically opens with a reference to the cuckoo bird, symbolizing unfaithfulness and longing, and often transitions into themes of courtship, heartbreak, or seasonal change. Its adaptable verses allowed singers to personalize the narrative, making it popular in oral tradition.
Early versions appear in English broadsides, and later collectors like Cecil Sharp and Alan Lomax documented multiple variants in the early 20th century. The enduring popularity of “The Cuckoo” lies in its haunting melody and evocative symbolism, which have inspired numerous interpretations by folk revivalists and contemporary artists alike, preserving its place in the Anglo-American folk canon.