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A powerful song illustrating an Irish emigrant’s reaction to anti-Irish sentiment and discrimination in the late 19th century Britain, though indeed the stereotypical popular images of the Irish described in the song were equally prevalent among the American establishment of that period.

lyrics

Well here I am from Donegal
And I’m most discontented
For to see the way we’re all put down
Not highly represented
For it see it is a general rule
To make out Pat a knave or a fool
But never mind he’ll play it cool
And he’ll stand up for old Ireland

Refrain:
Give me justice, treat me fair
And I’ll not be discontented
And I’ll not be laughed at anywhere
But highly represented

When on the stage I do appear
With a thundering big shillelagh
And a ragged coat and tattered clothes
You would think I’d come out gaily
With not a word of common sense
They don’t care that they give offense
But they carry on at Pat’s expense
Just let they come to Ireland

Now Mr. Punch and his literature
He treats us very badly
And when he draws his caricature
He presents us very sadly
With crooked limbs and villainous face
He thus depicts the Irish race
We think it is a sad disgrace
And we say so in old Ireland

They say we are dirty and lazy got
But what’s the use to grumble
For if they should enter an Irish cot
They’re made welcome though it’s humble
And in public works the country round
Where ‘er hard work it is to be found
In the railway tunnels underground
You’ll find the boys from Ireland

Tis very true I like a glass
Of porter or of whisky
And I’m partial to a pretty lass
She’d make me feel quite frisky
I am very quiet when left alone
But I’ll defend what is me own
And woe be to the foes of home
Who would dare run down old Ireland

credits

from There Were Roses, released January 19, 2022
Mick Moloney: vocals
Robbie O’Connell: harmony vocals
Jimmy Keane: piano accordion, harmony vocals

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Mick Moloney, Robbie O'Connell, and Jimmy Keane image

Mick Moloney, Robbie O'Connell, and Jimmy Keane

Since 1984, Mick Moloney, Robbie O'Connell, and Jimmy Keane have been delighting audiences with their unique blend of Irish music and song, both traditional and contemporary. An evening with this trio is an experience that covers much musical ground and is not easily forgotten. ... more

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