We’ve updated our Terms of Use to reflect our new entity name and address. You can review the changes here.
We’ve updated our Terms of Use. You can review the changes here.
/
  • Streaming + Download

    Includes unlimited streaming via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
    Purchasable with gift card

      $0.99 USD

     

about

(Mauser line adapted from a Yiddish poem marking the Vilna Ghetto Uprising)

lyrics

Five fathoms down submission lies
Its bones of coral made
Too often Torquemadas lead
The brightest to the grave
The ideas of Christ are actions
Take courage heart of mine
And cease to idle fancy
Step across the line

The enemy hearkens—a beast in the darkness
The amuser it wakes in my hand
I imagine a day when resignation is violence
And know I would feel the command
In Vilna beat plowshares to swords
In the face of their pain pacifism unglues
S'vet a poyk tun trot: Meer ze-nen do

The enemy hearkens a beast in the darkness
It measures and qualifies me
How deep can it drink the blood of the people?
Before my vows are released
With each day of fumbling, does action learn something?
When will Love find its opposable thumb?
Will it reach as it prays or preach while it stays
And bask in noblest pledges undone?

The enemy turns—his humanity burns me
To avoid the fist we will try
Despise the crusader—reject the invader
But when must the ghetto arise?
Song of my fathers a voice in the darkness
The amuser it drops from my hand
I dream of a day when the violent are emptied
And peace is the only command

credits

from Out of the Fertile Crescent, released July 1, 2000

license

all rights reserved

tags

about

Ballydowse Chicago, Illinois

Ballydowse is a folk punk band that sang of social and economic injustice.

contact / help

Contact Ballydowse

Streaming and
Download help

Report this track or account

If you like Ballydowse, you may also like: