I went off as a lad for riches and fame.
I left my wee lass ‘for she took my name.
Years later I came back to see her the same.
And told her I had to go sailin’ again.
When I left I could see her awavin’ at me
and she called to come back but it just couldn’t be.
I fought pirates and soldiers until they were dead.
I loved lots o’ harlets and jumped in their bed.
Sailed back to me poor lass in hanky so red
and the sweet little lass she did see I was fed.
When I left I could see her awavin’ at me
and she called to come back but it just couldn’t be.
Years passed and I grew old my hair turnin’ white.
I was missin’ my wee lass like she was my light.
So I sailed back to lassie ‘cause I knew it was right
and I loved her all morning and all through the night.
When I left I could see her awavin’ at me
and she called to come back but it just couldn’t be.
I vowed to meself that I’d come back and stay.
I would find all the riches where they all did lay.
I did and I found more and sailed back that day
but a storm took our ship as the wind crossed our way.
When we sank I could see her awavin’ at me
And she called to come back but it just couldn’t be.
Love it.
As with all ballads–“it just couldn’t be”! Wonderful addition to the tradition!
Absolutely love this Shanty tragedy!
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