17 August 2023: I Am Stretched on Your Grave

I Am Stretched on Your Grave

I am stretched on your grave
And will lie there forever
If your hands were in mine
I’d be sure we’d not sever

My apple tree, my brightness
It’s time we were together
For I smell of the earth
And am worn by the weather

When my family thinks
That I’m safe in my bed
From night until morning
I am stretched at your head

Calling out to the air
With tears hot and wild
My grief for the girl
That I loved as a child

Do you remember
The night we were lost
In the shade of the blackthorn
And the chill of the frost?

Thanks be to Jesus
We did what was right
And your maiden head still
Is your pillar of light

The priests and the friars
Approach me in dread
Because I still love you
My love, and you’re dead

I still would be your shelter
Through rain and through storm
And with you in your cold grave
I cannot sleep warm

So I’m stretched on your grave
And will lie there forever
If you hands were in mine
I’d be sure we’d not sever

My apple tree, my brightness
It’s time we were together
For I smell of the earth
And am worn by the weather

***


“I Am Stretched on Your Grave” is an anonymous 17th century Irish poem titled “Táim shínte ar do h’uaigh”,  translation by Frank O’Connor, arranged to music by Philip King, and notably recorded by Sinead O’Connor on her album “I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got”