I AM WELSH
I have searched for fame and fortune
and have been set back and disheartened!
But, I have been reminded by Cliff Morgan,
By He, a dwt of a man, who stands with other great men;
His shadow cast beyond the most prominent.
"I am Welsh." He proudly boasts;
And as many who may stand tall, he stands!
Tall, he draws himself to the height;
His authority and prominence in his speech,
His eloquence reaching to the sky!
There are few icons cast outside the valleys!
Monuments chiselled from coal or poured from iron;
Each elevated and idolised for their skill,
For accomplishment upon the gravest battlefield,
Where victory is earned by comrades, well armed.
He who is as fleet as the harrier, runs,
He who is driven by the foe's hammer, stands firm;
He who is in possession of the prize, advances;
He who is tackled and hindered in defence,
He maintains the balance and provides opportunity.
Leadership seeks the point and values the cap;
A crown of green, comparable to Caesar's laurel.
The challenge accepted and met, tested
As poured metal beaten on the anvil;
Unbeaten on sacred ground before the priesthood.
There is a rush of breath, momentarily;
Concentration, as in prayer, to the prophet,
Who may commentate on strategy and activity;
Upon the action of that dragon, clothed in red,
Who faces all opponents with a solid pack.
Cliff Morgan has given of his skill,
Of his strength and of his leadership,
To bring the truth of victory to the battle.
There are casualties who have paid a price
In opposition to a Nation's honour.
One man, or fifteen, hewn of rock,
Versatile and combustible, ignite;
A wall of flame extends and advances,
Fed by the birthplace and heritage beneath
Green vales, black mountains and grey waters.
He who has displayed valour in battle,
Now dispels the vanquished by his oratory.
There is a noble resolution in his diction,
Insight and understanding worthy of comment;
The bard of rugby extends his commentary!
A proud heritage its shadow has cast,
From the mountain top to darkened vale.
It reflects upon the most successful;
From Lloyd George, Flewellyn and Harry,
To
And the rest, those from
Stand proud to say, "I am Welsh!"
1995 © Will George.