a long time ago I was a young man, and dear Margaret remembers that for me

[primroseburrows]

Tonight I went to eat (in a borrowed car) at Ward's Publick House, a little Irish pub a couple of miles from my house. Little did I expect that they had a traditional music session, which I found happens every Sunday evening. So I sat and read my book and ate stuffies and onion soup and listened to the fiddle and guitar and whistle and it was grand.

One song they played was The Dutchman, which took me by surprise, because I basically cry every time I hear it. Moreso now, I think, since I've worked up close and personal with people who have Alzheimer's disease. Because that's what this song is about, as far as I'm concerned; a man with Alzheimer's and his wife who loves him and cares for him and remembers for him. I first heard it in 1980. I've loved it ever since, but for some reason I forget it until it hits me in the gut (in a good way) and it all comes back.

Tommy Makem and Liam Clancy - The Dutchman


*sigh*


Oh, and I also had a good time in Boston. mr_t00by loved MirrorMask, and I think his friend who was with him did as well.

Comments

[songdog.livejournal.com]

What a beautiful song...

[primroseburrows.livejournal.com]

It is.

[robinhoo.livejournal.com]

*downloads liek whoa* You know me and Irish music, and I love the Clancys! This is beautiful. Thank you.

[primroseburrows.livejournal.com]

How can one NOT love the Clancys?

I got to see Tommy Makem a few years ago, and he was truly wonderful.

[copper-beech.livejournal.com]

I completely agree- "The Dutchman" is such a beautiful song and so sad!

Don't think I've ever heard it performed live although it's on at least one of my beloved Clancy and Makem tapes- must be even more powerful live.

[primroseburrows.livejournal.com]

It's sad, but in another way it's uplifting, because it really is about enduring, unconditional love. :)