“Scarborough Fair” is a traditional English song from the end of the Middle Ages made famous in the 60s by Simon & Garfunkel. Scaraborough was an important port where a trade fair took place for 45 days from August, 15th. There were also some shows.
The song is about a man who asks the woman impossible things just to be sure she loves him. The text is full of irony and mockery, but the symbolism of plants like thyme and rosemary which connect them both to their respective values. It helps them to come together again. Jean-Paul Joly made a simple arrangement to suit the beautiful modal melody. He arranged it for 3-part mixed voices and kept the modal appearance as well as the siciliana rhythm.
