Hello all, well for me this has got to be my all time favourite traditional song. I used to be a sales representative coveing the North of Scotland from a line between Dundee and Oban with everything included, including the islands. However the best trip I did every other Wednesday was from my home in Inverness to Fort William or Lochcarron then over to Skye (in the time of the ferries and just after the bridge was built) all the way up to Uig via Broadford and Portree then back down the west side by Dunvegan and Carbost to Kyleakin then homeward to Invermoriston and Loch Ness. Wow what a trip through all sorts of weather and numerous experiences of "tourists" on my bit of road.
To the song I hope you enjoy it,
The far Cuillins are pullin' me away,
As take I wi' my crummack to the road.
The far Cuillins are puttin' love on me,
As step I wi' the sunlight for my load.
Chorus:
Sure by Tummel and Loch Rannoch and Lochaber I will go
By heather tracks wi' heaven in their wiles.
If it's thinkin' in your inner heart, the braggart's in my step,
You've never smelled the tangle o' the Isles.
Oh the far Cuillins are puttin' love on me,
As step I wi' my crummack to the Isles.
It's by Shiel water the track is to the west,
By Aillort and by Morar to the sea.
The cool cresses I am thinkin' of for pluck,
And bracken for a wink on Mother's knee.
Chorus:
The blue islands are pullin' me away,
Their laughter puts the leap upon the lame;
The blue islands from the Skerries to the Lews,
Wi' heather honey taste upon each name.
Chorus:
Meaning of unusual words:
Cuillins=mountains in the island of Skye
crummack=shepherd's crook
to you all a very pleasant journey to Skye awaits those who like to seek out wilderness and friendly people, I might just have to re-acquaint myself as it has been a good eight years since my last journey. A fond rememberance.
slainte mhar, slainte mhor
(cheers)
Jim