The Shan Van Vocht

The Shan Van Vocht, from the Irish An tSeanbhean Bhocht ("The Poor Old Woman"), is a traditional Irish song from the period of the United Irishmen's Rebellion of 1798.

The Seanbhean Bhoct was by poets to personify Ireland during the dark days of English rule.

Many different versions of the song have been composed by balladeers over the years, with the lyrics adapted to reflect the political climate at the time of composition. The title of the song, tune and narration of the misfortunes of the Shan Van Vocht remain a constant however, and this version, probably the best known, expresses confidence in the victory of of the United Irishmen in the looming rebellion upon the arrival of French aid.

Lyrics

"Oh the French are on the sea," says the Shan Van Vocht,
"The French are on the sea," says the Shan Van Vocht,
"Oh The French are in the Bay, they'll be here without delay,
And the Orange will decay," says the Shan Van Vocht.

"And their camp it will be where?" says the Shan Van Vocht,
"Their camp it will be where?" says the Shan Van Vocht.
"On the Curragh of Kildare and the boys will all be there
"With their pikes in good repair." says the Shan Van Vocht.

"And what will the yeomen do?" says the Shan Van Vocht,
"What will the yeomen do?" says the Shan Van Vocht,
"What will the yeomen do but throw off the red and blue,
And swear that they'll be true to the Shan Van Vocht.

"Then what colour will be seen?" says the Shan Van Vocht,
"What colour will be seen?" says the Shan Van Vocht,
"What colour should be seen where our fathers' homes have been
But our own immortal green? " says the Shan Van Vocht,

"And will Ireland then be free? " says the Shan Van Vocht,
"Will Ireland then be free? " says the Shan Van Vocht,
"Yes old Ireland will be free from the centre to the sea,
And hurrah! for liberty," says the Shan Van Vocht.