Song meaning of Angelina by Harry Belafonte

"Angelina" by Harry Belafonte is a heartfelt ballad that tells the story of a sailor returning home after a long journey at sea. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and nostalgia for home, as the protagonist reflects on his travels and experiences. The repeated plea to Angelina to bring down her concertina and play a welcome for him symbolizes the desire for a warm and familiar reception upon his return.

The opening lines, "Angelina, Angelina, please bring down your concertina," set the tone for the song and establish Angelina as a central figure in the protagonist's life. The mention of sailing around the Horn and traveling from San Jose to Baffin Bay highlights the vast distances he has covered and the challenges he has faced during his time away from home.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reminisces about his wild and adventurous past, including his time in honky tonk saloons and his penchant for bawdy tunes. However, despite his wanderlust and romantic escapades, he ultimately realizes that his heart belongs to Angelina. The lines, "And I've found there's only one / And she is Angelina," reveal his newfound clarity and commitment to returning to the one he loves.

Overall, "Angelina" is a poignant ode to love, homecoming, and the realization that true happiness lies in the embrace of a loved one. The song captures the universal themes of longing, belonging, and the enduring power of love to guide us back to where we truly belong.