Oh, they say 'tis a hanging
that soon I will be--
My body a-twisting from
yonder oak tree--
For daring to think that a man
could live free...
but though I may die,
'tis a harper I'll be.

The strings of my harp
will never be stilled
while the green of the shamrock
still grows on the hill
for the music of Ireland
is her strength and her will
and the soul of a harper
no mortal can kill.

Oh, the red-headed queen on her
cold golden throne
fears harper freedom
she never has known
Our bright Gaelic passion
comes through in the tone
so she orders it silenced
and broods all alone.

For a man of the road,
death holds no sting.
'Tis another adventure--
a wonderous thing.
And I know that my music
will evermore ring
in the hills and the rivers
of each Irish spring.

Background from Marc Gunn: A wonderful song written by acclaimed fantasy author, bard, storyteller, and Nagian, Rie Sheridan. This song was actually written for me to sing and has a wonderful melody. One day soon, I'll learn it. [Ed. In my opnion, Marc has learned this one quite well.]

If there is anything I've missed, any information that you know to be incorrect, or if there is a song you've heard on the podcast that you would like to see included, please do not hesitate to contact me at lyrics@renaissancefestivalmusic.com.