a little hopeful song

For Síle I give thee the sun as guarantee and the Egyptian faience beads and the little silver oar that was gifted once to an English harbor master. I give thee the silk dress with its triple-ruffled sleeves and the cloaks with big hoods that fall full though some are pulled in at a central button. I give thee the little colored goats that go down on their knees as penitents. I give thee the death mask and the plaster hand of Seán Ó Riada, for he is among the best loved of the musicians.