Ireland’s Call: how a derided rugby dirge became a song for Irish unity

Composed as a blander alternative to the national anthem, it has taken on new popularity and political meaningIt was the anthem everyone loved to hate, a musical concoction derided as an affront to patriotism and taste.The lyrics of Ireland’s Call urged the Irish to stand tall “shoulder to shoulder” before every rugby match, but many preferred to stay seated and mock the injunction. Continue reading...