Lyrics
Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing
Symbolizes swiftness and grace, comparing the boat's speed to a bird in flight.
Onward! The sailors cry
Command for the boat to move forward, expressing urgency and determination.
Carry the the lad that's born to be King
Refers to a young man destined for royalty, emphasizing his importance.
Over the sea to Skye
Indicates the journey to the Isle of Skye, a location significant in Scottish history.
Loud the winds howl, lous the waves roar
Describes the harshness of the weather with loud winds and roaring waves.
Thunderclouds rend the air
Portrays a dramatic scene with thunderclouds tearing through the air.
Baffled, our foes stand by the shore
Suggests the adversaries are confused and hesitant on the shore.
Follow they will not dare
Implies that those who oppose will not have the courage to follow.
Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing
Reiteration of the boat's speed, emphasizing its significance in the journey.
Onward! The sailors cry
Repeated call for the sailors to press onward, maintaining the sense of urgency.
Carry the the lad that's born to be King
Restates the purpose of carrying the destined king across the sea to Skye.
Over the sea to Skye
Reiterates the destination, reinforcing the focus on the journey to Skye.
Though the waves leap, soft shall ya sleep
Despite turbulent waves, the lad will sleep peacefully, suggesting protection.
Oceans a royal bed
Portrays the vastness of the ocean as a regal resting place, emphasizing majesty.
Rocked in the deep, Flora will keep
Indicates that Flora, possibly a guardian figure, will watch over the lad's sleep.
Watch by your weary head
Emphasizes the comforting image of being cradled in the deep, reinforcing safety.
Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing
Repetition of the boat's speed, maintaining the theme of swiftness and agility.
Onward! The sailors cry
Reiteration of the call for the sailors to press onward, echoing determination.
Carry the the lad that's born to be King
Reaffirms the mission of carrying the lad born to be king, underscoring its significance.
Over the sea to Skye
Final confirmation of the journey to the Isle of Skye, concluding the narrative.
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