The Wren Song

December 26, Saint Stephen's Day, is still recognized in Ireland with this ancient song about the wren. The wren was considered the king of all birds, according to a folktale. The birds of Ireland were competing to determine their king with a contest to see which could fly the highest. It looked like the eagle would win, until the wren flew from hiding on the eagle's back and flew even higher. The wren is also associated with the oak tree and the holly, symbols of the pagan horned God.

The wren, the wren, the king of all birds,: Saint Stephen's Day was caught in the furze,
Although he was little, his honor was great,: Jump up, me lads, and give us a treat!

Chorus:: Hurrah, me boys, hurrah!; Hurrah, me boys, hurrah!; Knock at the knocker and ring at the bell,; What will you give us for singing so well?; Singing so well, singing so well,; Give us a copper for singing so well.

We followed the wren three miles or more,: Three miles or more, three miles or more,
Through hedges and ditches and heaps of snow,: At six o'clock in the morning.

Rolley, Rolley, where's your nest?: It's in the bush that I love best,
It's in the bush, the holly tree,: Where all the boys do follow me.

As I went out to hunt and all,: I met a wren upon the wall,
Up with me wattle and gave him a fall,: And brought him here to show you all.

I have a little box under me arm,: A tuppence or penny'll do it no harm,
For we are the boys tht came your way,: To bring in the wren on Saint Stephen's Day!