The Spectrum

Dominic Behan
Published in "Folk Scene" January 1966

The spectrum is I will be bound what the spectrum of our fathers was
Red, white and blue on a golden ground and a little dash of purple of course
Establishment is what it was. What it is it still shall be: Oxford, Eton, Cambridge, Gordonstoun
Playing fields and patronage are all we can expect in an English country garden

Refrain: Flogging, don't forget the flogging

Would you let your daughter or your sister or your Mother if you could before it started
Marry with a-- sorry, I don't like to call them coloured, said the whitesmith noble hearted
Daddy was a black n' tan made his money in Japan, always said the coins went tinkle never "chink"
We all mind our P and Q there's nothing else for us to do in an English country garden

Refrain: Language! Don't forget your language!

How many of your best friends are Jews in an English country garden?
? If jack-boots were marching which would you choose and if you don't of course we'll pardon
Jesus Christ or Einstein, Israel or Palestine? Which one What one...slowly...take your time
Maybe we will go to tea and miss the gallows-tree in an English country garden

Refrain: Hanging--Don't forget the hanging.

Please remember who wrote this song, and when, before you criticise it. It is a product of its time, and I only pass it on as a historical document, not as an endorsement.

Giok