Tuesdays at 2pm
Welcome to the September 22nd edition of Sounds of Home!
The Oats
Here I stand with tinkling bells galore,
twenty on each straw, I think, or more.
But the farmer, bless his honest soul,
calls me oats and speaks of twenty fold.
I was sown while happy birds in spring
made with joyful songs the welkin ring.
Bumblebees in wild and tumbling race,
in the mellow sunshine droned the bass.
Growing up in sun and morning dew
that sweet symphony within me grew.
He who listens humbly while I ring,
hears the echo of the songs of spring.
Cold unfeeling hearts can never see
anything but cattle feed in me.
I am more than food for hungry jaws,
I am song of birds on golden straws.
I am friends with everything that grows,
friends with every gentle wind that blows,
friends with waving trees and summer skies,
friends with daisies and with butterflies.
When the sun goes down, its parting smile
lingers on my golden head awhile,
and when evening bells ring out, I, too,
tinkle, standing tip-toe in the dew.
I am ringing children to their beds,
ringing up the mist that slowly spreads.
Ringing peace, as busy day departs,
into humble homes, and pious hearts.
Text: Jeppe Aakjær, trans. by S.D. Rodholm
Music: Aksel Agerby
Words and Music copyright © 1941,
Danish American Young Peoples League
Like to lend your voice?
Our upcoming theme is “punch”
If you have a response to this theme – whether a story or memory, original piece of writing or poetry, music, radio drama, or one-liner – the sky’s the limit – between 5 seconds and 5 minutes in length – or if you would like to guest host or lead a song to sing together — we’re eager to hear from you!
To submit a response, please make an audio recording and email it to Molly,
or send in a written response to be read aloud on the program.
Contact Molly at tulkmo01@luther.edu for information and submissions.
Deadline for submissions is Monday, September 28th.