The track is based on the medieval English tradition of "," a precursor to modern trick-or-treating.
: While "souling" was originally an autumn tradition for All Souls' Day , Peter, Paul and Mary's version incorporates Christmas elements by sampling melodies from " God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen " and " Hey, Ho, Nobody Home ". Arrangement and Composition The track is based on the medieval English
The song "" by the American folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary was first released on their 1963 album Moving . It is a reimagined traditional English folk tune that blends medieval customs with 1960s folk harmonies. Song Meaning and Historical Roots It is a reimagined traditional English folk tune
The trio's version is a complex vocal arrangement written by along with Elena Mezzetti and Tracy Batteast. A' Soalin' | Christmas Songs : During Allhallowtide (October 31 – November 2),
: The chorus, "Soal, a soal, a soal cake, please good missus a soul cake," directly references this plea for alms.
: During Allhallowtide (October 31 – November 2), the poor and children would go door-to-door singing and offering prayers for the dead in exchange for "soul cakes"—small, spiced round cakes marked with a cross.
It is a challenge to decide whether this song – A' Soalin' – is a Christmas Song or a song for All Soul's Night (or Hallow's Eve). WordPress.com