The First Song Ever Written in English (Mirie It is)

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“Mirie it is” is considered the earliest known secular song written in English, dating from the early 1200s. Though it's in Middle English, you might be surprised by how many words are familiar to us today! Lyrics below!
This short but powerful piece expresses a deep yearning for the warmth and joy of summer, contrasted against the harshness of winter. It’s a glimpse into the emotional lives of people over 800 years ago — and a reminder that longing, beauty, and seasonal blues are timeless. Sing along with me!

✨ Performed on Celtic harp and voice by Melegie ✨

Middle English:
[M]irie it is while sumer ilast
ƿið fugheles song.
oc nu necheð ƿindes blast
and ƿ[ed]er strong.
Ey ey ƿhat þis nicht [is] long.
And ich ƿið ƿel michel wrong
soregh and murne and [fast.]

Modern Spelling:
Mirie it is while sumer ilast
With fugheles song.
Oc nu necheth windes blast
And weder strong.
Ey, ey! What this nicht is long.
And ich with wel michel wrong
soregh and murne and fast.

Modern English:
Merry it is while summer lasts
With fowl’s song.
But now nears the wind’s blast
And weather strong.
Oh, oh! How this night is long!
And I with very much wrong
Sorrow and mourn and fast.


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