Bright College Years

[1] During World War I and shortly afterward, "Bright College Years" was nearly banned for its German origins.

Yale men stationed in Paris sang it to the tune of "La Marseillaise".

We all must leave this college home, About the stormy world to roam; But though the mighty ocean’s tide Should us from dear old Yale divide, As round the oak the ivy twines The clinging tendrils of its vines, So are our hearts close bound to Yale By ties of love that ne’er shall fail.

In after years, should troubles rise To cloud the blue of sunny skies, How bright will seem, through mem’ry’s haze Those happy, golden, bygone days!

Various member parties in the Yale Political Union include "Bright College Years" in their toasting sessions and celebrations.