Memories of a Bygone Era 

Every year, as the warm summer fades away and the splendour of autumn colours is upon us, my thoughts turn to a specific memory from my childhood. It is almost like clockwork and never fails.  

Mom, Claire and Paul 

circa 1944

When I was about four or five years old, my mom taught me a song that is forever etched in my memory.  

When the trees take on their beautiful fall colours,  and when gentle breezes send brightly coloured leaves of red and gold gently spiralling to the ground, forming, colourful carpets, I am reminded of a song my Mother taught me more than eighty years ago. To this day, I still sing “Come Little Leaves said the wind one day,” when driving along, enjoying the fall season and all its many vibrant colours. This brings back many fond memories of the bygone era. 

Children’s Song 

“Come, little leaves,” 
Said the wind one day, 
“Come over the meadows 
With me, and play; 
Put on your dresses 
Of red and gold; 
Summer is gone, 
And the days grow cold.” 
 
Soon as the leaves 
Heard the wind’s loud call, 
Down they came fluttering, 
One and all; 
Over the meadows 
They danced and flew, 
Singing the soft 
Little songs they knew. 
 
Dancing and flying 
The little leaves went; 
Winter had called them 
And they were content- 
Soon fast asleep 
In their earthy beds, 
The snow laid a soft mantle 
Over their heads. 

“Come Little Leaves” was written by the American poet George Cooper (1838–1927), with music by Thomas J. Crawford. “Come Little Leaves” was written by the American poet George Cooper (1838–1927), with music by Thomas J. Crawford.