Maudlin, sentimental or otherwise I love this song, OK! Also it would be a suitable anthem for Northern Ireland as it has appeal for both communities (remember the Prot boxer who won a medal somewhere (Commonwealth Games?) and sang the song live in the ring, in tears. Same applies to Barry McGuigan (Catholic ex-world boxing champ).

Best description of the song that I have is heard is by Shane MacGowan, "it's a song about love conquering death".