Here is a general overview of what happens after a ballad is created:
Oral transmission: Ballads were traditionally passed down orally, from one singer to another. As a result, they would often vary from one rendition to another, as each singer added their own interpretations and embellishments.
Written transmission: In the later middle ages, ballads began to be written down, often in manuscript collections or songbooks. This allowed for a wider and more stable dissemination of ballads, and helped to preserve them for future generations.
Performance and adaptation: Ballads were typically performed in a variety of settings, such as at social gatherings, in taverns, or at fairs. As ballads were performed, they would often be adapted to suit the tastes and preferences of the audience, and new versions and variants would be created.
Influence on other genres: Ballads have had a significant influence on other forms of literature and music. They have inspired poets, novelists, and composers, and have been used as source material for plays, operas, and films.
Preservation and study: In modern times, ballads have become the subject of scholarly study and research. Folklorists and scholars have collected and analyzed ballads from around the world, and have worked to understand their origins, transmission, and cultural significance.
Continued evolution: Ballads continue to evolve and change, even in the modern era. They may be adapted and performed by contemporary singers and musicians, and may incorporate elements from different cultures and genres.