Lord Franklin
Sinead O'Connor · Sean-Nos Nua
Swinging in my hammock I fell asleep
I dreamed a dream and I thought it true
Concerning Franklin and his gallant crew
With 100 seamen he sailed away
To the frozen ocean in the month of May
To seek a passage around the pole
Where all poor sailors do sometimes go.
Through cruel hardships they vainly strove
Their ships on mountains of ice was drove
Only the Eskimo with his skin canoe
Was the only one that ever came through
In Baffin's Bay where the whale fish blow
The fate of Franklin no man may know
The fate of Franklin no tongue can tell
And Lord Franklin among his seamen do dwell
And now my burden it gives me pain
For my Lord Franklin I'd sail the main
Ten thousand pounds I would freely give
To know Lord Franklin, and where he is.
Lord Franklin
Sinead O'Connor's rendition of 'Lord Franklin' appears on her 1990 album Sean-Nos Nua, a project dedicated to traditional Irish folk music. The track adapts a classic ballad about a tragic voyage, showcasing O'Connor's ability to reinterpret historical narratives through her distinctive vocal style. While she is widely recognized for her pop and alternative rock hits, this recording highlights her deep connection to her Irish heritage and the folk genre. The song stands as a testament to her versatility, moving beyond her mainstream commercial success to explore the rich storytelling traditions of Celtic music. This performance captures the melancholic atmosphere typical of the genre, offering listeners a glimpse into her broader musical interests beyond her most famous chart-topping singles.