Myfanwy Lyrics (Welsh & English)

What are the Myfanwy Lyrics?

Myfanwy lyrics come from a famous Welsh love song written by Richard Davies and composed by Joseph Parry in 1875. The song tells a story of unrequited love and remains one of the most cherished pieces in Welsh musical tradition.

Below you’ll find the full Myfanwy lyrics in Welsh and English, along with their meaning and history.

Myfanwy - Quick Facts

• Song title: Myfanwy
• Language: Welsh
• Lyrics by: Richard Davies
• Music by: Joseph Parry
• First published: 1875
• Theme: Unrequited love
• Tradition: Welsh male voice choirs
• Origin (legend): Castell Dinas Brân, Wales

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Myfanwy Pronunciation

Myfanwy is pronounced Muh-VAN-wee with the emphasis on the middle syllable. This Welsh name is typically a three-syllable word, and the "y" sounds like the "uh" in "above," while the "w" sounds like the "w" in "we". Myfanwy is in common use in today's Welsh language as a female name.

What Are the Myfanwy Lyrics About?

The Myfanwy lyrics tell the story of a poet mourning lost love. He reflects on his devotion to Myfanwy, who has turned her affection elsewhere. The tone is emotional, poetic, and deeply expressive, typical of traditional Welsh romantic music.

Myfanwy Lyrics – Line by Line Translation

Verse 1

Paham mae dicter, O Myfanwy,
Why is there anger, O Myfanwy,

Yn llenwi’th lygaid duon di?
Filling your dark eyes?

A’th ruddiau tirion, O Myfanwy,
And your gentle cheeks, O Myfanwy,

Heb wrido wrth fy ngweled i?
Why do they not blush when you see me?

Pa le mae’r wên oedd ar dy wefus
Where is the smile that was on your lips

Fu’n cynnau cariad ffyddlon ffôl?
That once kindled a faithful, foolish love?

Pa le mae sain dy eiriau melys,
Where is the sound of your sweet words

Fu’n denu nghalon ar dy ôl?
That once drew my heart after you?

Verse 2

Pa beth a wneuthum, O Myfanwy,
What have I done, O Myfanwy,

I haeddu gwg dy ddwyrudd hardd?
To deserve the frown of your fair cheeks?

Ai chwarae’r oeddit, O Myfanwy,
Were you only playing, O Myfanwy,

 thanau euraidd serch dy fardd?
With the golden flames of your poet’s love?

Wyt eiddo i’m trwy gywir amod,
You are mine by rightful promise,

A’i gormod cadw’th air i mi?
Is it too much to keep your word to me?

Ni fynaf byth mo’th law, Myfanwy,
I would never want your hand, Myfanwy,

Heb gael dy galon gyda hi.
Without your heart with it.

Verse 3

Myfanwy, boed yr holl o’th fywyd,
Myfanwy, may all your life

Dan heulwen ddisglair canol dydd.
Be under the bright sunshine of midday.

A boed i rosyn gwridog iechyd
And may a rosy bloom of health

I ddawnsio ganmlwydd ar dy rudd;
Dance for a hundred years upon your cheek;

Anghofia’r oll o’th addewidion,
Forget all your promises

A wneist i rywun, eneth ddel,
That you made to someone, fair maiden,

A dyro’th law, Myfanwy dirion,
And give your hand, gentle Myfanwy,

I ddim ond dweud y gair “Ffarwél”.
If only to say the word “Farewell.”

The Meaning of Myfanwy

The name Myfanwy is a traditional Welsh female name. In the song, she represents an idealised love, beautiful, distant, and ultimately unattainable.

The lyrics explore:

• Love and devotion
• Rejection and heartbreak
• Nostalgia and longing

This emotional depth is why the song remains a staple in Welsh culture.

The Story Behind the Song

The song was written in the 19th century, with music composed by Joseph Parry, one of Wales’ most important composers. The lyrics are often linked to a romantic legend involving a woman named Myfanwy who lived near Castell Dinas Brân.

Today, the song is widely performed by Welsh choirs and is considered a cornerstone of traditional Welsh music.

Why Myfanwy Is So Popular

• Frequently performed by male voice choirs
• A symbol of Welsh heritage and identity
• Known for its powerful melody and emotional lyrics
• Popular at concerts, competitions, and cultural events

Myfanwy, As Sung By...

The song has featured in many films and television programmes and has been sung by almost, if not every single Welsh male voice choir.

• In films it featured in 'How Green was my Valley' and also in the Swansea based film, 'Twin Town' and also in the 1992 Welsh-language biographical film Hedd Wyn.
• On TV it featured in Midsomer Murders episode "Death and Dust".

In modern times, it is still a favourite as sung by Cerys Mathews, and Bryn Terfel and is also sung without exception at every Welsh Rugby Union international in the National Stadium, Cardiff. Even Nigel Owens, our World Cup referee has sung Myfanwy!! Lastly, a mention to the famous USA singer and band Donny Osmond who has also sung Myfanwy.

Explore More Welsh Songs

If you enjoyed these Myfanwy lyrics, explore more traditional Welsh music and lyrics in our collection.

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FAQ: Myfanwy Lyrics

What are the Myfanwy lyrics about?
They describe unrequited love, where the singer mourns losing Myfanwy’s affection.

Are Myfanwy lyrics in Welsh or English?
The original lyrics are in Welsh, but English translations are widely available.

Who wrote the Myfanwy lyrics?
The lyrics were written by Richard Davies, with music composed by Joseph Parry.

What does “Myfanwy” mean?
It is a traditional Welsh female name, often associated with beauty and love.

Is Myfanwy a real person?
The song may be inspired by legend, but Myfanwy is generally considered a symbolic or poetic figure.