From the recording Solstice
“Souling” is a tradition dating back to medieval times, and its songs were memorialized in 1891 by Rev. M. P. Holme of Tattenhall, Cheshire, England. He assembled a collection of “Souling” songs - including A’ Soalin” - which came from a little girl at her local school. The song celebrates life’s struggles, with a wink to those who also knew it as a day for sneaking into the houses of the well-to- do for mischief, soul cakes & drink. A bittersweet song for the ages.