2016 collection

The Rising (marfach)

The Rising

A delicate kiss on my forehead,

A whisper of 'be careful'

I nod, a nod of 'yes, of course'

And then a nervous smile.

'When I'm back for supper

It will be in a free country.'

Another nod, from my mother this time

Yet the doubt in her eyes is unmistakable.

There is something else there too -

Fear, worry

Will I be back for supper?

Or will their Crown's men prevent me from ever coming home?

Will the document under my arm

Ring true?

And will the flags over the GPO

Really represent freedom for years to come?

And the gun in my pocket:

Will it protect me?

Will I, in the moment that I need to,

Be able to pull the trigger?

There has to be no doubt in my mind

For I am fighting for the right cause

I am fighting for my country

I am fighting for my Ireland.