Cold Old Fire

Lankum's song "Cold Old Fire" is a poignant reflection on the struggles and resilience of Dublin's working-class community. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a city grappling with modernity, where the traditional spirit of its people is at risk of being extinguished by the pressures of urban life. The song opens with a declaration of defiance, as the narrator and their companions continue to sing despite their hardships. This act of singing, even in the face of adversity, serves as a form of resistance against the harsh realities of life in Dublin.

The recurring metaphor of a "cold old fire" symbolizes the fading memories of a once-vibrant community spirit. The fire, now reduced to embers, represents the lost vitality and warmth that once defined Dublin. The lyrics lament the fact that these embers are all that remain, handed back to the people as a reminder of what has been lost. The reference to the "button factory" and being "cattle at the stall" underscores the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and modernization, where individuals are reduced to mere cogs in a machine.

Throughout the song, there is a sense of yearning for a time when Dublin's heart was still beating strongly. The lyrics highlight the alienation and isolation felt by the people, trapped by surveillance and the impersonal nature of the modern city. Yet, amidst this bleak landscape, there is a glimmer of hope. The song serves as a reminder that the spirit of Dublin's people, though diminished, is not entirely extinguished. The act of singing and remembering the old songs is a way to keep that spirit alive, to resist the forces that seek to silence it.