The Minstrel Boy


The minstrel boy to the war is gone in the ranks of death you will find him
His father's sword he hath girded on and his wild harp slung behind him
Land of Song, said the warrior bard though 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 chains could not bring his proud soul under
The harp he loved never spoke again for he tore its chords asunder
And said, no chains shall sully thee thou soul of love and bravery
Thy songs were made for the pure and free they shall never sound in slavery

The minstrel fell but the foeman's chains could not bring his proud soul under
The harp he loved never spoke again for he tore its chords asunder
And said, no chains shall sully thee thou soul of love and bravery
Thy songs were made for the pure and free they shall never sound in slavery


Writer/s: Trad. Arr.: D. Campbell