Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE MINSTREL BOY, by THOMAS MOORE


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE MINSTREL BOY, by             Poem Explanation         Poet's Biography
First Line: The minstrel boy to the war is gone
Last Line: "they shall never sound in slavery."
Alternate Author Name(s): Little, Thomas
Subject(s): Freedom; Minstrels; Liberty


The Minstrel Boy to the war is gone
In the ranks of death you'll find him,
His father's sword he has girded on,
And his wild harp slung behind him.
"Land of song!" said the warrior bard,
"Tho' all the world betrays thee,
One sword, at least, thy rights shall guard,
One faithful harp shall praise thee."
The minstrel fell! but the foeman's chain
Could not bring that proud soul under;
The harp he loved ne'er spoke again,
For he tore its chords asunder;
And said, "No chain shall sully thee,
Thou soul of love and bravery.
Thy songs were made for the pure and free,
They shall never sound in slavery."






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