The Magic of Jame’s Flute on Music Day.
By Randall Stephen Hall. 5.6.15
https://soundcloud.com/randall-stephen-hall/the-green-and-blue-18-7-13
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I listened with interest to James Galway’s interview with Stephen Nolan this morning. I’m sure he will come in for some criticism. He is a man entitled to his opinions. I only hope he doesn’t suffer through the ill advised broadcasting of them (or the contentious section towards the end), even though his views on local politics brought up interesting points to debate.
I grew up in Belfast, never really relating to the conflict between Catholics and Protestants, between Unionists and Nationalists. I grew up a Presbyterian, quite different, from the broad brush stroke term, “Protestant”. I always felt like an outsider, while, as a human being, anyone desires to belong.
This song is written from the perspective of an outsider who only wants peace between all the factions and tribes in Ireland. I have no interest in politics but I do relate to my neighbour as an individual. I wrote this song in October 2012. A cold winter indeed.
If James Galway is a Lundy, who wants integrated education, then I must be one too. And there must be a host of Lundy’s out there with positive aspirations for the green and the blue too.
The Green and Blue. A song by Randall Stephen Hall. ©
Oh I hear your words rising like the sun. Far across the fields for they move as one. Lining up like men with their horses strong. They will gather up all their strength for song.
Oh these words I take from this magic bag. My sword and shield, they are all I have. But they’ll fight for me just like Finn MacCool. They are like a spear , I will throw for you.
Chorus.
Oh Ireland, oh Ireland. Oh Cath-a-leen na Hoolihan. Oh Ireland and Scotland too. When will I see Your green and blue?
But there’s more to this. Not just words you see. Not just Ireland . For it’s you and me. I am here you know like I’ve always been. My two wee legs standing with the green.
Chorus.
Oh let me in I am here so long. Oh add my tunes all to your song. Oh harmony, oh harmony. Oh let your love just encircle me.
Chorus.
Oh Ireland When will I see you? Oh Ireland
When will I see you.
The Green and Blue. Randall Stephen Hall
If we are all listening to the BBC and talking about the BBC and hanging on every little word and phrase then we are already beaten. We have to create our own platforms for discourse and leave the bickering to the bigots and naysayers.
Thanks Colmán. That’s quite an ambition. But a worthy one.
Thanks for your thoughts. RSH.