Raglan Road

Whew! I guess we can never really be certain what things will grip one’s heart swiftly and unseen. One moment I’m going happily along listening to Mott the Hoople sing All the Young Dudes. Then I wheel my iPod over to my Irish playlist to make sure Raglan Road downloaded correctly.

Instantly tears sprang to my eyes, and I cried violently throughout the piece. Even now my eyes water at the mere memory of the tune.

I first heard the song while watching the movie In Bruges. The film’s characterized as a comedy. Well, maybe a little at the beginning. But believe me, it turns into a grim ride.

On a quiet street where old ghosts meet
I see her walking now
Away from me so hurriedly my reason must allow
That I had loved not as I should
A creature made of clay
When the angel woos the clay
He'll lose his wings at the dawn of day.

Oh, Jesus. Who can’t help but cry? It’s just too sad, even without the film.