The Blackbird of Sweet Avondale

Source: Where The Linnets Sings (2026)

Location: Track 40

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By the sweet bay of Dublin while carelessly strolling,

I sat myself down neath the green mossy shade,

And there by the beache, the wild waves were rolling,

In sorrow condoling I spied a fair maid.

Her robes were in mourning that once shone so glorious.

It made my heart ache all to hear her sad wail.

Her heart strings they sang of wild deeds so notorious,

Crying ‘Where is my blackbird of sweet Avondale?’

In green county Meath, Wexford, Cork and Tipperary, 

The rights of old Ireland my blackbird did sing. 

While woe to the hour when with heart light and airy, 

He flew from my arms and to Dublin took wing.

The foul hawks were there with intent to ensnare him,

While I here in sorrow his absence bewail.

It grieves me to know that the walls of Kilmainham,

Surround my poor blackbird of sweet Avondale.

A cold prison dungeon is no habitation,

For one to his country so loyal and true.

O give him his freedom without hesitation.

Remember he fought hard for Ireland and you.

Oh, Erin my country, awake from your slumbers,

And bring back my blackbird, so dear onto me.

And let everyone see by the strength of your numbers, 

That Ireland, a nation, still longs to be free.

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