The Scottish Soldiers’ Letters Home
Tune: William Lawrie, “The Battle of the Somme”, 1916
Lyrics: Morag Josephine Grant, 2016
They came from all over, and they left in the morning
“Cogadh na Sith”, and thinking of home
They left us much more, though, than a deep sense of mourning
“Cogadh na Sith” sounds over the Somme
Wee scraps of paper
Wee scraps of humour and life
Bound up in folders
Still shining bright
The bluebells are gone, now, and a new day is dawning
And “Cogadh na Sith” will sound out no more.
I’ve something to tell you, my dear Father and Mother
“Cogadh na Sith”, and thinking of home
Tomorrow the piper will be leading us over
“Cogadh na Sith” sounds over the Somme
I’ll come through fighting
I’ll come though singing my song
I’ll be okay, mam,
But if I’m wrong
I’m sure as I can be we’ll be meeting hereafter
Where “Cogadh na Sith” will sound out no more.
Now beat the retreat boys, yous have done what you came for
“Cogadh na Sith”, and thinking of home
And haud your heads high, lads, ’cause there’s no-one to blame while
“Cogadh na Sith” sounds over the Somme
Fighting for glory
Fighting for Cuidich 'n Righ
Fighting for something
Fighting for peace
It doesnae make sense now, though I’ve burst ma heid trying
And “Cogadh na Sith” will sound out no more.
So this is my last post, this will be my last letter
“Cogadh na Sith”, and thinking of home
My wound’s all inflamed now, and it willnae get better
“Cogadh na Sith” sounds over the Somme
Think on me dearly
Think on me, nearly a man
Think on me yearly
Never forget!
And think of a way that we could do this much better,
Than “Cogadh na Sith”, for surely there’s more?
And “Cogadh na Sith” will sound out no more.