Writer-director Sam Mendes knows how to push emotional buttons in his films, and one button in his war drama 1917 was his use of a folk and gospel song sung by actor Jos Slovick near the film’s finale.
Appearing as a British soldier Slovick sings I Am a Poor Wayfaring Stranger to his fellow soldiers just before they’re committed to battle.
So, press the top left play button on the above feature image to listen to the video.
Apparently, the song is not British, but American. It’s believed to have originated sometime in the early 19th century.
Out of the trenches, Slovick performed I Am a Poor Wayfaring Stranger at 2020’s Academy Awards.
Other singers of note who have sang I Am a Poor Wayfaring Stranger covers include Johnny Cash and Ed Sheeran.
You can read the lyrics for I Am a Poor Wayfaring Stranger below:
I’m just a poor wayfaring stranger
Traveling through this world below
There is no sickness, no toil, nor danger
In that bright land to which I go
I’m going there to see my Father
And all my loved ones who’ve gone on
I’m just going over Jordan
I’m just going over home
I know dark clouds will gather ’round me
I know my way is hard and steep
But beauteous fields arise before me
Where God’s redeemed, their vigils keep
I’m going there to see my Mother
She said she’d meet me when I come
So, I’m just going over Jordan
I’m just going over home
I’m just going over Jordan
I’m just going over home.
