Siúil a Rún (Walk My Love)
Celtic Woman
A Heart's Lament: The Journey of Love in 'Siúil a Rún'
Celtic Woman's rendition of 'Siúil a Rún (Walk My Love)' is a hauntingly beautiful Irish folk song that delves deep into themes of love, loss, and longing. The song is sung in both English and Irish Gaelic, which adds to its ethereal and timeless quality. The repeated refrain, 'Siúil, siúil, siúl a rún,' translates to 'Walk, walk, walk my love,' and sets the tone for a journey filled with emotional depth and poignant yearning.
The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is deeply in love and willing to make significant sacrifices for her beloved. She imagines herself on a distant hill, crying until her tears could power a mill, symbolizing the immense sorrow she feels. The mention of selling her rock, reel, and spinning wheel to buy her love a sword of steel suggests a readiness to give up her livelihood and comfort for the sake of her lover's safety and honor. This act of selflessness highlights the depth of her devotion and the lengths she is willing to go to support her love.
The song also touches on themes of societal expectations and personal sacrifice. The woman speaks of dyeing her petticoats red and begging for bread around the world, actions that would bring shame and disapproval from her parents. Yet, she is undeterred, driven by her unwavering love and commitment. This narrative reflects the timeless struggle between following one's heart and adhering to societal norms. The melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics combine to create a powerful expression of love's enduring and often painful journey.