Ballinatray
Unveiling Tales of Sorrow: Lewis Barfoot's Ballinatray Saga
Lyrics
Once there was a family from an island in the south
Introduction to a family from a southern island.
The Mother was a fine one, Father put drink in his mouth
The mother is commendable, but the father has a drinking problem.
Despite love of the liquor, he bred a whole flock of nine
Despite the father's love for alcohol, he has nine children.
Three raven-haired sisters, six lads to tow the line
Three sisters with dark hair and six boys to manage.
Now this woman though made of earth ‘n stone was wounded by some words
The mother, strong but wounded by hurtful words.
Sticks and stones can snap your bones, words they hurt the worst
Emphasizes the impact of words, which can be more harmful than physical harm.
For defending from her drunken wretch, her babies, her own kind
The mother defended her family but faced criticism.
She was labeled as a “mad one” for speaking her own mind
Labeled as "mad" for speaking her mind.
To the madhouse she was sent for speaking from her heart
Sent to a mental institution for being outspoken.
Nine young children from their mother had to part
Nine children separated from their mother.
The young boys, they all died, not a man left
All male children died, leaving only the three sisters.
Just three raven haired sisters with their white skin and bare breasts
Description of the surviving sisters.
Now the three raven haired sisters were sent along their way
The sisters set out alone with no possessions.
Without a toy between them, just with themselves to play
They have only each other for company.
But the play didn't last long, as they looked up from the shore
Their playtime is disrupted as they notice the stern nuns.
Where the nuns, not a smile between them, locked the orphanage door
The orphanage door is closed by emotionless nuns.
Now this story is a long one with several tales of woe
Indication that the story is complex with ongoing hardships.
And the pain of these women continues to flow
The pain of these women endures.
Sticks and stones have snapped their bones, words they hurt the worst
Reiteration of the impact of words causing lasting pain.
Now the words of their story are free to be dispersed
Their story is now revealed and can be shared.
No, not hidden no more, there’s no need for pain
Emphasis on liberation from secrecy, eliminating the need for pain.
No, not hidden no more there’s no need for shame
Continuation of the theme, expressing that there is no need for shame.
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