Of the two songs, I was really drawn to 'Banks of the Ohio'. The contrast between the tone of the song and the lyrics struck me in a way that I very much appreciated. I listened to a few versions of the song and came to like the version with Bill Monroe and Doc Watson. It touched me in a way the others did not.
A little background on Doc Watson (born Arthel Watson). He was a pioneer in his form of guitar plucking, much like Maybelle Carter was with her own, and was considered a revolutionary when it came to the guitar, casting it in a new light of performance. He demonstrated such power and control over his notes; people almost take for granted the sheer complexity of his chords. Nevertheless, they were much enjoyed by everyone who heard them, even to this day.
On a different note, I really tried to figure out why I connected more to this song than the other one. While both songs center around the theme of losing a loved one, 'Banks of the Ohio' is told from the point of view of the killer instead of a witness standpoint. At first I was horrified by this notion, but the more I listened to it and weighted the tone of voice, I came to share that same remorse.
There's irony in what I say. I was proposed to twice before, and each time I declined. Even more ironic was that my suitor at the time was a singer of sorts. I can almost imagine him singing this song about my death. Fortunately for me, I was not killed for saying no, but I wonder how I would have died if I was not so lucky.
Even though it is hard to believe, we are all much luckier than we think.
Darling say that you'll be mine
In our home we'll happy be
Down beside where the water flows
Far on the banks of the Ohio
***
I have murdered the girl I love
Because she would not be my bride
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