Ossian Collection > Selections from the Gaelic bards

MODERN C4AELIC BARDS.
" Woimd the huge swell on the ocean meadow,
Heavy and deep."
Or this other,
"Let your fists' broad grasp be w/iitc7ii}ig
In your rowing ! "
Or how the effect of the cry "Suas orr !"
^^ Hurls the Birlhni through the cold glens.
Loudly snoring."
Or again when they are told in the Boat Song to
" Let the grey sea ever foaming.
Splash her forward pressing shoulders,
And the currents groan and mingle
Far behind her."
Or the description of the steersman, who is to be,
" A well set prop full of vigour.
Broad-seated, thick,
Stout and sure, and skilful and wary,
Cautious, yet quick."
Or that of the balesman,
" His trust he '11 rigidly discharge it,
Neither faint nor slack,
Nor straightening, while a drop reraaineth.
His bending active back ;
'Though her boards should all get riddled.
He must keep her snug.
As a well-made lid, close fitting.
Keeps a polished jug."
Then, there is tlio description of the storm in which the Birlinn
made her first entry on the open sea. This, as a more elaborate
and sustained effort of the poet's imagination, cannot fail to
attract tbe notice of a discerning reader, The elements are let