"Scarlett Ribbons (For Her Hair)" is a song originally written by Jack Segal and Evelyn Danzig in 1949. It has been covered by various artists, including Bobbie Gentry, who popularized it in 1970. The song tells the story of a parent, possibly a father, who overhears their child praying for scarlet ribbons for their hair. However, due to the late hour and all the stores being closed, there are no scarlet ribbons available in town. The narrator's heart aches at their child's innocent request, and they stay awake throughout the night, pondering where they could find these ribbons. However, just before the dawn breaks, the narrator takes a peek into their child's room and finds a surprise. There, lying on the child's bed, is a "gay profusion" of lovely scarlet ribbons. The source of these ribbons is a mystery to the narrator, and they express awe and wonder at their appearance. They can't understand where they came from but are grateful that their child's prayer was somehow answered. The song emphasizes the innocence and purity of a child's belief in miracles, as the scarlet ribbons magically appear without any explanation. It serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the delight in unexpected surprises. Bobbie Gentry's rendition of "Scarlett Ribbons" beautifully captures the emotions of longing, love, and wonder that the song evokes.
