If I was a Blackbird

I am a young sailor, my story is sad

Though once I was carefree and a brave sailor lad

I courted a lassie by night and by day

Ah, but now she has left me and sailed far awayOh, if I was a blackbird, could whistle and sing

I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in

And in the top rigging, I would there build my nest

And I'd flutter my wings over her lily-white breastOr if I was a scholar and could handle a pen

One secret love letter to my true love I'd send

And I'd tell of my sorrow, my grief and my pain

Since she's gone and left me in yon flowery glenOh, if I was a blackbird, could whistle and sing

I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in

And in the top rigging, I would there build my nest

And I'd flutter my wings over her lily-white breastI sailed over the ocean, my fortune to seek

And though I missed her caress and her kiss on my cheek

I returned and I told her my love was still warm

But she turned away lightly and great was her scornOh, if I was a blackbird, could whistle and sing

I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in

And in the top rigging, I would there build my nest

And I'd flutter my wings over her lily-white breastI offered to take her to Donnybrook Fair

And to buy her fine ribbons to tie up her hair

I offered to marry and to stay by her side

But she says in the morning she sailed with the tideOh, if I was a blackbird, could whistle and sing

I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in

And in the top rigging, I would there build my nest

And I'd flutter my wings over her lily-white breastMy parents they chide me and will not agree

Saying that me and my false love, married should never be

Ah, but let them deprive me or let them do what they will

While there's breath in my body, she's the one that I love stillOh, if I was a blackbird, could whistle and sing

I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in

And in the top rigging, I would there build my nest

And I'd flutter my wings over her lily-white breast