Poem – ‘Lough-An-Lae’

This poem about the Loughanleagh was written by Paddy Kangley.  Born in Carnakelly, Kilmainhamwood, Paddy was a teacher in Kilkenny and died in 1937 (RIP).

 

Lough – An – Lae
Written by: Paddy Kangley

They may talk of Limerick City and the Giant’s Causeway too,
The Vale of Sweet Avoca or the River Shannon view,
The sights around Killarney and the scenes on Dublin Bay,
But they are only simple places when compared to Lough-An-Lae.

With it’s lovely elevation and it’s view that’s something grand,
You can see the hill of Tara and down to Lavey Strand.
The ships in Dundalk harbour and the bathing out at a Bray,
And the hills of Connemara from the top of Lough-An-Lae.

Whilst around her lovely valleys you’ll find nature at it’s best,
With some gay young lads and lassies coming there to take a rest.
You’ll always find true lovers there no matter what they say,
So if you want a sweetheart, come round the Lough-An-Lae.

They will always treat the stranger with the luxury of home,
And give you information if you feel inclined to roam.
For in all European countries and throughout America,
We are fully represented from around the Lough-An-Lae.

Should you board the big Cunarder off the famous County Cork.,
You never think you’re sailing until you’re landed in New York.
If you feel fatiqued or tired and you need a good café,
Just call at Smith’s in Yourken Street, he’s from the Lough-An-Lae.

You need no introduction but walk straight into the bar,
Just mention Muff or Kingscourt, Lisnavassna or Drumbar.
He will surely look you over and I bet you’ll hear him say:
“I think I know your features, are you from the Lough-An-Lae ?”

He will start you a few questions if business it is slow,
Such as how is Mickey Reilly or the death of Pairig Joe.
He will tell you that in sunshine is the time to make the hay,
For you bet he knows his business when he’s from the Lough-An-Lae.

There the boys will gather round you and turn sadness into cheer,
With some whiskey, ale or brandy, or a glass of lager beer.
But you always must remember when it comes your turn to pay,
To never look for credit as you did at Lough-An-Lae.

Now I hope you will prosper in that land across the foam,
And try for to remember the old folks you left at home.
Then you’ll surely be a credit to that mountain far away,
Where you spent the days of chilodhood – ‘tis the dear old Lough-An-Lae.