The Island Men, as sung by Men of No Property, early 1970s: From Belfast town I'm on my way On a ship that was built for the tourist trade I leave my home and the land where I was born And I won't come back till my fortune is made Chorus: I served my time with the Island men And I've known good times and work in plenty But there's no work now in these troubled times For the shipyard slips are lying empty Farewell to my father and mother fair, Old age has laid its hand upon you You loved me well and you never failed It's leaving your side my heart will rue I promised to write when I've settled down To ease your mind, for I know you'll worry Think of the time when I return But don't count the days for time won't hurry I'll remember the hills and the fresh north air I'll remember the girls with their friendly smiles I'll think of the city and the friends that I have there And I hope my love will transcend the miles. I'm leaving the land where I was born But I long for the day of my returning To a job, a home, and peace of mind- For the Belfast people I'll always be yearning
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