The Water Is Wide is a traditional folk song, also known as O Waly, Waly, that originated in the British Isles and was passed down through singers long before modern recordings existed. Its story of love that cannot be crossed, like a wide stretch of water, has kept it in folk repertoires for generations, with many singers adding their own verses and arrangements. Today the melody is widely recognised even by listeners who do not know its full lyrics, which is why short excerpts are often reused for reflective, romantic or bittersweet moments online.