The little boy sat with his mouth open wide
Sitting near the fire as the rain falls outside
Listening to the talk of the history men gathered around
Learning ‘bout the future by listening to the past
Caught up in the moment and wishing it could last
Surrounded by heroes who give a glimpse of something profound
The little girl sat with her bow in her hand
Wishing that she could be part of the band
Soaking up the music of these regal giants who are uncrowned
Learning all the notes by starting with the beat
A sensation that is shared and infects the dancers’ feet
Who respond in delight to the sound with a leap and a bound
History’s not the past when the tune carries on
The singer and the dancer entertain all night long
Providing children with inspiration that will last in their dreams forevermore
The little boy’s a grown man, who now shares his dreams
The little girl’s music now flows like a stream
Embodying the culture of their heroes that they explore and restore.
One night once in a lifetime
One night altogether by the fireside
Memories bring endless sunshine to the bright-eyed child.
Daithí Kearney is an Irish poet and musician. From Co. Kerry, he now lives and lectures in Co. Louth on the east coast. His poetry is inspired by his surroundings and his young family. His poems have been recently published in Paddler Press, Patchwork Folklore Journal, Duck Duck Mongoose, Martello and Field Guide.
Duck Duck Mongoose Magazine 