Tommy Makem)



What did I have, said the fine old woman

What did I have, this proud old woman did say

I had four green fields, each one was a jewel

But strangers came and tried to take them from me

I had fine strong sons, who fought to save my jewels

They fought and they died, and that was my grief said she



Long time ago, said the fine old woman

Long time ago, this proud old woman did say

There was war and death, plundering and pillage

My children starved, by mountain, valley and sea

And their wailing cries, they shook the very heavens

My four green fields ran red with their blood, said she



What have I now, said the fine old woman

What have I now, this proud old woman did say

I have four green fields, one of them's in bondage

In stranger's hands, that tried to take it from me

But my sons had sons, as brave as were their fathers

My fourth green field will bloom once again said she







Note: The fields are provinces of Ireland