Bonny Portmore (Introduction)

Although the destruction of old growth forest has gone on for centuries
Only recently, are we better at understanding their unique
And powerful force in the future of our planet's survival

When I found a copy of Bonny Portmore in an old book of songs around 1990
I was intrigued by the fact that it focused on the demise of the great oak tree
Which stood on the shore of Lockberg in Ireland

I'd come to understand that over the centuries
Many of Ireland's old oak forest were leveled for military
And shipped and in purposes
I'd also learn that the culture of the Kilts was very nature oriented

As exemplified in the reverence for trees
And the reflection that the souls of some of their ancestors might be embodied in those trees
This integrated reverence for nature is not unlike many indigenous peoples around the world

And in particular, in Canada
Where I make my home
And is essential spiritual believe, which I also hold dear

And the more I think on you, the more I think long
If I had you now as I had once before
All the Lords in Old England would not purchase Portmore