Castle Writers
Out of the Cocoon
Athlone 2020
The Song of Sionainn I am Goddess of the Shannon, in Erin’s deepest heart. The wisdom of the ages I am ready to impart. I glide along forever, though mortals come and go, The constancy of Nature is in my endless flow. From Cavan’s Cuilceagh mountains, through Ireland’s central plain,
I slowly wend my way down south, refreshed by gentle rain. My lakes are full of beauty and my wooded islands green. You may bathe in my cool waters, or sail a boat between. But I am not always gentle; my water is wide and deep. Beware of my strong current; remember those who weep For friends, who perished in my depths, some never to be found . At times, I even burst my banks and flood the land around. I saw the monks of Clonmacnoise, who settled by my side And I witnessed daring Viking raids; but my time I did bide. King John’s castle at Athlone rose proud upon my bank And many boats passed up and down and some there were that sank .
I have seen fierce battles here; a famous siege took place, But through it all, I still flow on, in majesty and grace. You learned to harness something of my energy, that’s true; At Ardnacrusha station, I share my power with you. But take me not for granted; I am worthy of devotion; I am Sionainn, Celtic Goddess, ever flowing to the ocean. Margaret Franklin January 2020
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