Sometimes when scandalous or tragic things happen, they find their way into local folklore, and sometimes that includes being recorded in song. It’s that type of thing that inspired this poem.

It tells the story of Daphne du Maurier’s (13th May 1907 – 19th April 1989) Rebecca (1938), Mrs Danvers being the de Winter’s sinister housekeeper. I think of Judith Anderson from Alfred Hitchcock’s 1940 film adaptation.

I’ve also written a short story which is a sequel to Rebecca, so might post that here too.

Old Mrs Danvers was wicked and mean; On Max’s new wife she was not at all keen – His first she adored, with devotion outpoured – And thus she resolved, so callous and cold, To menace and intervene!

She told his new wife That Rebecca, still rife, Could never be gone from the hearts she had won: She’d never compare, and should sooner despair For her presence would only cause strife.

In spite of her efforts she could not succeed But the new happy couple she would not concede, They could not have peace, in a house that would cease – Rebecca had claim, and with rage aflame She committed the infamous deed.

Old Mrs Danvers, old mad Mrs Danvers Filled great Manderley with embers, Old Mrs Danvers, old mad Mrs Danvers Burnt grand Manderley to cinders!