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User Name Thread Name Subject Posted
John Wood Lyr Req/Add: The Lily of the West (Knopfler/Chieft (20) Lyr Add: THE LILY OF THE WEST 16 Sep 99


Hi Helge.
And tak for sist(as they say up here).
What are you looking for?
The tune they use is: "The Lakes of Pontchartrain", as recorded by Mr. Paul Brady.
The words are:

THE LILY OF THE WEST

When first I came to Ireland
Some pleasures for to find
It's there I spied a damsel fair
So pleasing to my mind
Her rosy cheeks and sparkling eyes
Like arrows pierced my breast
And they called her lovely Molly-O
The lily of the west.

One day as I was walking
Down by the shady grove
I spied a lord of high degree
Conversing with my love
She sang a song delightfully
While I was sore oppressed
Saying I'll bid adieu to Molly-O
The lily of the west.

I stepped up with my rapier
And my dagger in my hand
And I dragged him from my false love
And boldly bid him stand
But being mad with desperation
I swore I'd pierce his breast
I was then deceived by Molly-O
The lily of the west.

I then did stand my trial
And boldly I did plea
A flaw was in my indictment found
And that soon had me free
That beauty bright I did adore
The judge did her address
Now go you faithless Molly-O
The lily of the west.

Now that I've gained my liberty
A-roving I will go
I'll ramble through old Ireland
And travel Scotland o'er
Though she thought to swear my life away
She still disturbs my rest
I still must style her Molly-O
The lily of the west.

If you thought to play this on your mouthorgan, it goes in the key of C!!
Lykke til
Hilsen John.
    Note from Joe Offer: This is a very accurate transcription of the version Mark Knopfler sings with the Chieftains on their Long Black Veil album. Dan Milner sings a similar version. Knopfler uses the tune I associate with "Lakes of Ponchartrain," and Milner uses "Star of County Down."
    -Joe Offer- 15 Oct 2014-


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