Donny O'Rourke
Donny O'Rourke is one of the poets we chose to feature for National Poetry Day 2008.
Donny O'Rourke was born in Port Glasgow. He is a poet, film-maker, journalist, and broadcaster. He is also the author and editor of more than a dozen books, including 'Dream state: the new Scottish poets' (1994).
These poems are from 'One Light Burning', published by Bonny Day. The pamphlet features images by printmaker Harry Magee.
There never was dark
There never was dark like the black
of the blitz
What refuge is tin from direct hits?
No basement or shelter can keep out the
the dread
Widow's weeds on each window —
curtains for the dead …
We'll draw mourning's drapes when
we've won never fear
The first light's come on, soon they'll
sound the 'all clear'
Greenock and Clydebank won't make
Glasgow doubt …
Though all over Europe the lights
have gone out!
Lullaby
Sleep my wee one safe from harm
Cherished by the night-light's charm
Dreamland isn't far awy
Neither's Daddy: and he'll stay
With laughter, love and lullabyes
Until his dearie shuts her eyes
Until his dearie shuts her eyes
Soon, moon and sun and she must rise
If before then chanced to stir
Shadows shouldn't frighten her
All night long this lamp will shine
Brightly, bonny bairn of mine