The Minstrel Boys - Liam Clancy

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