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"Cúnla" is a deep-rooted Irish folksong, it was initially written in the Irish language.
Contents
C nla trio d nal lunny p draig rynne sylvain barou
History
Cúnla was believed to be written sometime in the 14th century and was introduced as a type of lullaby or baby tickling song. The writer of the song is unknown and is normally sung in Sean-nós. This is a unique style of unaccompanied singing in the Irish language. The song has been sung by many artists throughout the years but one of the most notable was sung by Joe Heaney on the album The Road from Connemara released on October 31st, 2000. Other interpretations include The Dubliners, The Chieftains, Christy Moore, Gaelic Storm, Planxty, and Anúna.
English Versions
There are various English versions translated from the Irish language. Here are two commonly-sung versions:
Version #1
O Who Is That Out There Knocking the Ditches Down O Who Is That Out There Knocking the Ditches Down O Who Is That Out There Knocking the Ditches Down Nobody, Only Cúnnla Cúnla Dear, Don't Come Any Nearer Me Cúnla Dear, Don't Come Any Nearer Me Cúnla Dear, Don't Come Any Nearer Me Maybe I Shouldn't, Says Cúnla Who Is That Down There Tapping the Windowpane Nobody, Only Cúnla Who Is That Down There Raking the Fire For Me Nobody, Only Cúnla Who Is That Down There Tickling the Toes Off Me Nobody, Only Cúnla Who Is That Down There Pulling the Blanket Off Nobody, Only Cúnla.Version #2
Cúnnla dear don't come any nearer to me! "Surely I will!" says Cúnla. Who is that down there knocking down the (stone) walls? "Me, myself" says Cúnla. Who is that down there knocking the window? "Me, myself" says Cúnla. Who is that down there fanning the fire for me? "Me, myself" says Cúnla. Who is that down there putting water into the kettle for me? "Me, myself" says Cúnla. Who is that down there pulling the blanket off me? "Me, myself" says Cúnla. Who is that down there tiddling the soles of my feet? "Me, myself" says Cúnla. Who is that down there knocking the (stone) walls? "Me, myself" says Cúnla.