John Barleycorn Must Die

The character of John Barleycorn is part of English folklore, dating back to before Shakespearean times. He is the representation of the barley crop (and the drinks made from barley, including whiskey & beer), according to tradition.  In the traditional song, John Barleycorn is abused terribly before he ultimately dies. Folklorists compare this to the nature of farming: planting, growing, harvesting, death.