25 APRIL 1958, Page 30

Aran, 1947 Whistling in the night— As a defence against

loneliness, A buffer between the heart and a mind Briefly uneasy— To shorten the road Home from visiting, This time back there I did not hear.

A light-hearted tune As the day met the night From a fine strapping lad; High deeds or rash dares; Exultant cries Shattering the silence As the tales of their fathers' feats Were told to these lonely people, This time back there I did not hear.

A shout of joy or of fun From young hearts (Throwing the 'stone of strength' As was usual on Sundays) In the vigour of the game, Or while kicking a ball in the air I did not hear this time.

Not again shall the young possess That bleak narrow island.