"Wild Mountain Thyme" is actually a traditional Scottish folk song, not composed by James Taylor himself but performed by him. The lyrics describe the arrival of summer and the beauty of nature, particularly the blooming trees, the wild mountain thyme, and the purple heather. The song is directed towards a lassie or a young woman, asking if she will join the singer in enjoying the wonders of nature. The singer suggests going together to pick wild mountain thyme and marvel at the purple heather. The second verse talks about the singer's intention to build a bower, a sheltered place, for his love by a clear and crystal fountain. He promises to adorn it with all the flowers from the mountain. The final verse mentions the possibility of the singer's true love rejecting him, but he remains determined to find another companion to enjoy the wild mountain thyme and blooming heather with him. Overall, the song conveys the beauty of nature and captures a sense of longing for companionship and love amidst the picturesque Scottish landscape. James Taylor's rendition of this traditional folk song has brought it to a wider audience and showcases his talent as a singer and interpreter of folk music.
