I first had the idea for this song / poem on hearing the news about the good ship Madleen, setting out for Gaza.

 

Thunberg and her crewmates were not “deported” from Israel. The Madleen was illegally detained, her crew illegally abducted / kidnapped to Israel, and then released, after the Madleen’s cargo of aid had been stolen.

 

The so-called “personalities” - several failed “comedians” amongst them - in the Anglophone trash media who mocked her humanitarian gesture are nothing but despicable cowards who sit on their fat backsides in cushy studios whilst Greta Thunberg and her shipmates put themselves in physical danger. She has more courage in her little finger than any of them.

 

Now that the crew of the Handala are under way to Gaza, I dedicate my poor quavery voice and a duly updated version, in recognition of their examplary courage and humanity.

 

To the tune of “Speed Bonnie Boat”.

Words by me.

Chorus: Handala, speed with our love on the wing!

             “Onward!” the whole world cries,

              “Send them our love!” we all loudly sing,

               Love to Palestine flies.

 

1. Scatter our people, burn down our homes,

Say we’re not humankind,

Put us in chains, with bombs crush our bones,

You can’t imprison our minds.

Chorus

 

2. Though tyrants howl, though they may roar,

Though their hate rends the air,

Though all compassion they do abhor,

Armed with our love, we’ll dare.

Chorus

 

3. Palestine’s freedom must win the day,

Bravely our pens we must wield,

Truth unto power we will convey,

Courage and Hope never yield.

Chorus

 

4. Whilst mothers weep, my pen will not sleep,

Never will rest my hand,

Our faith is deep, in our hearts we will keep

A space for Palestine’s Land.

Chorus

Uilleam Ó Ceallaigh, an séú lá déag dé mhí Iúil, 2025