Rainbow

A description of walking in Belfast LGBTQ Pride, in Northern Ireland in 2018.

In other parts of our isles,
I’ve marched in carefree celebration 
But when my people voted Yes, then
My reason to march was no more.

Until that warm, welcoming day, 
Having travelled to march in a city 
Marred by solemn shuffles 
Or tense, triumphalist strolls; 
A different parade was planned.

There, where Lagan stream sings liberty, 
A flag of neither nation, but all, flies free; 
Where old divides of orange and green, 
Blend softly within the rainbow’s dream.

Where children watch upon grown-up shoulders, 
From steps under Belfast Cathedral’s glare, 
Their backs to its door, their smiles towards us. 
Walking alongside Ulster’s United Pride,

Confident in who and where we’ve been, 
Flying our flag, 
Reminding us all, 
That rainbows appear when storms die away.

Author's Note

- "our isles": A reference to Britain and Ireland. The term "British Isles" is very controversial in Ireland (as it implies British ownership of Ireland, despite Irish independence in the 1920s) and therefore not used.
- "voted Yes" - the 2015 Marriage Equality referendum in the Republic of Ireland
- Lagan: The river that runs through Belfast city.

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

A very appropriate title for this write. At long last barriers are being broken and people can live the lives they want to without fear. We have come a long way since the days of Oscar Wilde. Another fine write from you Scott.

Chris