THE MINSTREL BOY

Thomas Moore (1779-1852) Air "the Moreen" Ancient Irish Air



The minstrel boy to the war is gone,

In the ranks of death you'll find him;

His father's sword he hath girded on,

And his wild harp slung behind him;



"Land of Song!" cried the warrior bard,

(Should) "Tho' all the world betrays thee,

One sword, at least, thy rights shall guard,

One faithful harp shall praise thee!"



The Minstrel fell! But the foeman's steel

Could not bring that proud soul under;

The harp he lov'd ne'er spoke again,

For he tore its chords asunder;



And said "No chains shall sully thee,

Thou soul of love and brav'ry!

Thy songs were made for the pure and free

They shall never sound in slavery!



1985

Some words from Maggie Pierce at Indian Neck 1985

@war @music

recorded by Clancy Bros on songs of Rebellion

filename[ MINSTBOY

DC

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