*nodding* I know that ballad by the title "The House Carpenter." Natalie Merchant sings one version, but the one I imprinted on was Jean Ritchie's version. Whoa, that one made me shiver.

I can see why it upset you. In the ballad (well, at least "The House Carpenter" version), she's tempted by offerings of riches and ease, and she abandons her children, facts which prepare you for the bad turn that comes. Whereas it sounds like Jackson gives her a deeply sympathetic treatment--and then still leaves her stranded and suffering. Very real, very distressing.