Shipbuilding Maura O'Connell

"Shipbuilding" by Maura O'Connell, released in 1985, is a poignant #Folk song reflecting on the impact of war and loss in a community. It explores themes of hope, resilience, and the human cost of conflict, using shipbuilding as a metaphor for rebuilding lives. The song features emotive vocals and a haunting melody, resonating with listeners and highlighting the emotional weight of its subject matter. Its cultural impact lies in its ability to evoke empathy for those affected by war.

[Verse 1]
Is it worth it?
A new winter coat and shoes for the wife
And a bicycle on the boy's birthday
It's just a rumor that was spread around town
By the women and children
Soon we'll be shipbuilding

[Verse 2]
Well I ask you
Boy said, "Dad they're gonna take me to task
But I'll be back by Christmas"
It's just a rumor that was spread around town (Oh, it's just a rumor)
Somebody said the people get killed in
(Somebody said, somebody said)
The result of this shipbuilding

[Chorus]
With all the will in the world
Diving for real life
When we could be diving for pearls

[Verse 3]
(Whoa, it's just a rumor)
It's just a rumor that was spread around town (Spread around town)
A telegram or a picturе postcard
Within weeks they'll be reopеning the shipyard
And notifying the next of kin
Once again
It's all we're skilled in
We will be shipbuilding

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