Lyrics
It was a summer's eve
Describing the setting as a summer evening.
We crossed the reeds into the northern territory, just a deck of cards on me
Narrating a journey into the northern territory with minimal possessions (a deck of cards).
No breadcrumbs at my feet
Expressing the absence of guidance or markers for the journey.
We'd never stray too far away from the cornerstone, embedded at the crossroads between Ballagh-bridge and home
Staying close to a significant point (cornerstone) between Ballagh-bridge and home.
We'd been well warned of the storm and of the cavalry sent by her Majesty in the interest of peace
Awareness of an impending storm and the Queen's cavalry for peacekeeping.
If peace is love and there's no love like that of the family, then why're they keeping mine from me?
Questioning the connection between peace and separation from one's family.
I'd wonder on my way
Reflecting on the situation while wandering.
The border boys beat the drums of their fathers
Highlighting the Border Boys drumming, likely symbolizing a military or cultural identity.
The border boys beat the drums of their fathers, til they come home
Repetition of the Border Boys' drumming, emphasizing anticipation for their return.
If they ever come home
Expressing uncertainty about whether the Border Boys will return.
Ten to nine, I'm intended for the parlour where the only armour you need is a hand and a patient mind
Describing preparations for a specific time (ten to nine) involving simplicity and patience.
Come ten to nine, suddenly I find I'm in a stable
Unexpectedly finding oneself in a stable at the specified time, facing trouble.
Hands bound, head bowed 'cause there's trouble along the line
Depicting a situation with bound hands and a bowed head, suggesting adversity or conflict.
And the border boys beat the drums of their fathers
Reiteration of the Border Boys' drumming, emphasizing a cultural or familial tradition.
Border boys beat the drums of their fathers
-Border boys beat the drums of their fathers
-The border boys beat the drums of their fathers
-I guess I'm not coming home
Concluding with the speaker acknowledging they may not return home.
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