Keep the Home Fires Burning (Ivor Novello song)

Keep the Home Fires Burning, also known as "'Till the Boys Come Home," is a British patriotic song composed in 1914 during the early months of World War I. The music was composed by Ivor Novello and the lyrics were written by Lena Guilbert Ford.

The song is a ballad expressing longing and hope for the safe return of soldiers fighting overseas. It captures the sentiment of families and loved ones left behind, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive and supportive home environment despite the anxieties of war. The lyrics speak of keeping the “home fires burning” as a symbol of unwavering loyalty and the promise of a warm welcome for the returning troops.

"Keep the Home Fires Burning" quickly became immensely popular, resonating deeply with the British public and soldiers alike. Its simple melody and emotionally charged lyrics made it a powerful anthem of wartime solidarity and resilience. It was widely performed in concert halls, music halls, and even in the trenches, boosting morale and offering a sense of unity during a time of immense hardship.

While primarily associated with World War I, the song has continued to be performed and remembered in subsequent years, often as a nostalgic reminder of the war era. It has been recorded by numerous artists and remains a recognizable and evocative piece of British musical history. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes of love, hope, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.