*Minstrel Boy

The Minstrel BoyBy THOMAS MOORE

Irish Poet (1779-1852)

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The Minstrel-Boy to the war is gone,

In the ranks of death you'll find him;

His father's sword he has 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 chain   Could not bring his proud soul under;

The harp he loved ne'er 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."