My People

Stare across the crowd, the fear and love in their faces

The children of the tribes, prisoners of the flags unfurling

Protect us in these changing times,

The warm embrace, the killing price . . .

My people right or wrong

Remember running from the hall as the voices screamed behind us

I felt I'd die for you in the sunlit hills of our home

The moments come then recede away

The empty words, the hollow light of day . . .

My people right or wrong

And outside is cold, staring up at the lighted window

And in the bitter home, the thicker the blood the faster it keeps on flowing

Get in your place, boy

Let's take what's ours, boy

Understand the price, boy

I've seen those who try to make a life without kin for ever

So I've taken my place uncertain at your shoulder

The last few prayers, the whistle blow,

And into the fray once more we go

My people right or wrong