Ancient Ballads Traditionally Sung in New England, Volume 4Ballads offer one of the most fascinating and revealing records of humankindour deepest feelings and most profound experiences, our laughter and joys, our troubles and sorrows. There is no battle, no romance, no escapade, no tragedy recorded in song which is not rich both in historical significance and in contemporary experience. A ballad is a link with past generations, traditions, and the basic character traits of a people, a region, or a country.