Celtic Lyrics Corner > Artists & Groups > Flora MacNeil > Craobh Nan Ubhal > Iain Ghlinn Cuaich

   
Craobh Nan Ubhal Iain Ghlinn Cuaich
   
Credits: Traditional; arranged by Flora MacNeil
   
Appears On: Craobh Nan Ubhal
   
Language: Gàidhlig (Scottish Gaelic)
   
Other Versions: "Iain Ghlinn' Cuaich" on Capercaillie's album Sidewaulk
"Iain Ghlinn Cuaich" on Cliar's album Grinn Grinn
"Iain Ghlinne Cuaich" on Rachel Walker's album Bràighe Loch Iall
   

Lyrics: English Translation:
   
O Iain Ghlinn' Cuaich Oh John of Gleann Cuaich
Fear do choltais cha dual da fàs We shall hardly look upon your like again
Cùl bachlach nan dual Plaited curling hair
'S e gu camlubach suas gu bhàrr And every lock of it in tresses
Beir an t-soraidh seo bhuam Take this greeting to him
Dh'fhios an fhleasgaich as uaisle dreach Who is the noblest-looking scion of all
A dh'fhàg aiceid am thaobh He who left an ache in my side
'S a chuir saighead an aoig am chneas And shot a deadly arrow into my body
   
Iain, Iain, a ghaoil Oh John, my dear
Cuim' a leig thu me faoin air chùl Why did you cast me aside so lightly
Gun ghuth cuimhn' air a' ghaol With never a thought of the love
A bh'againn araon air tùs? That from the first bound us together as one?
Cha tug mise mo spéis I gave my heart
Do dh'fear eile fo'n ghréin ach thu To no other man under the sun
Is cha toir as do dhéidh And after you I never will
Gus an càirear mo chré 'san ùir Until I myself am laid in the earth
   
'S i do phearsa dheas ghrinn Your elegant, shapely form
Dh'fhàg mise cho tinn le gràdh That I loved above any other
'S nach eil cron ort ri inns' There is no flaw to be found in you
O mhullach do chinn gu d'shàil Not from the top of your head to the soles of your feet
__ Many a pure, young girl will approach you
__ With welcoming looks as you pass
__ Though I by a cruel fate
__ Gave you the greatest love of all