The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #120974   Message #2636793
Posted By: Tug the Cox
20-May-09 - 02:51 PM
Thread Name: Looking for a trad song about dancing
Subject: RE: Looking for a trad song about dancing
This poem by John Masefield goes beautfully to the tune of 'Sally Gardens' A last line refrain also fits well.Repeat first verse at the end.

Going (down) by Daly's shanty I heard the boys within
Dancing the Spanish hornpipe to Driscoll's violin,
I heard the sea-boots shaking the rough planks of the floor,
But I was going westward, I hadn't heart for more.

All down the windy village the noise rang in my ears,
Old sea boots stamping, shuffling, it brought the bitter tears.
The old tune piped and quavered, the lilts came clear and strong.
But I was going westward, I couldn't join the song.

There were the grey stone houses, the night wind blowing keen,
The hill-sides pale with moonlight, the young corn springing green,
The hearth nooks lit and kindly, with dear friends good to see.
But I was going westward, and the ship waited me.