Longboats Ride

[Verse 1]

The tide pulls sharp against the shore

I braid the willow in my hands

The shields are hung along the longboat's side

And I watch you leave the sand

The wind smells of salt and iron

Your voice carries over the waves

I count the oars until they disappear

Down where the grey sea raves

[Pre-Chorus]

Hold the prow toward the pale north light

Keep the wolf's fire burning bright

[Chorus]

Longboats ride the churning deep

Carrying sons the sea will keep

Longboats cut the morning grey

My prayer follows you all the way

[Verse 2]

The hearth grows cold without your laugh

I mend the nets and wait alone

The ravens circle over silent fjord

And winter claims its throne

Your mother knits a woollen shawl

For shoulders she may never hold

I carve your name upon the oaken door

A story left untold to fold

[Pre-Chorus]

When the snows begin to fall

I will answer the sea's call

[Chorus]

Longboats ride the churning deep

Carrying sons the sea will keep

Longboats cut the morning grey

My prayer follows you all the way

[Bridge]

The horn will sound across the ice

The fallen will be named

But I will light the lantern low

And keep the flame aflame

[Chorus]

Longboats ride the churning deep

Carrying sons the sea will keep

Longboats cut the morning grey

My prayer follows you all the way

My prayer follows you