About the Song
“Lemon Tree” by The Seekers is a delightful and melodic interpretation of the well-known folk song that balances gentle whimsy with quiet melancholy. Originally written by Will Holt (adapted from a Brazilian tune by José Carlos Burle and lyrics by Tom Zé), the song became popular in the 1960s folk revival, with renditions by artists like Peter, Paul and Mary and Trini Lopez. The Seekers, with their unmistakable blend of crystal-clear vocals and tight harmonies, bring their own unique charm to this bittersweet tale.
Lyrically, the song revolves around a simple but evocative metaphor: “Lemon tree very pretty, and the lemon flower is sweet, but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.” It’s a parable of love—beautiful on the surface, but sometimes disappointing or painful beneath. The narrator reflects on a past romance, using the lemon tree as a symbol for how something that appears so lovely can also carry bitterness, a theme that resonates with both innocence and wisdom.
Judith Durham’s lead vocal brings a delicate, almost wistful tone to the song. Her voice, known for its purity and expressive control, carries both the gentle joy of the melody and the underlying sadness of the lyrics. There’s a sense of youthful reflection, as though she’s looking back on a lesson learned, but without bitterness—just quiet acceptance.
The musical arrangement is classic Seekers folk-pop: acoustic guitar, upright bass, and soft rhythm, with lush harmonies from Bruce Woodley, Athol Guy, and Keith Potger that elevate the simple melody into something elegant and enduring. The tempo is easy and flowing, giving the song a breezy feel while maintaining the emotional undertone.
While “Lemon Tree” may not carry the emotional weight of some of The Seekers’ more profound ballads like “The Carnival Is Over”, it serves as a perfect showcase of their interpretive skill and vocal blend. It’s light without being shallow, reflective without being heavy, and it captures the essence of 1960s folk music—accessible, poetic, and timeless in its message.
In short, The Seekers’ “Lemon Tree” is a gentle folk gem, wrapped in bright melody and shaded with quiet sorrow. It’s a song that invites listeners to smile, sigh, and reflect—all in the space of a few minutes—and it highlights the group’s enduring ability to breathe new life into classic folk songs with sincerity and grace.