Margaret Franklin The Song of Sionann

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