Tuning Up

    We can all identify with feelings of homesickness, probably having felt it acutely at different times of our lives. Hell, you can even feel homesick for a place you've never been.

    I once heard a live concert where the great Scottish talent Dougie MacLean, by way of introduction for "Caledonia", suggested that every songwriter should pen a good homesick song. That sounded like a good idea to me then, and it seems like an even better idea now. He's had tremendous success with that particular tune; it's become something of an unofficial anthem for the independent Scots spirit.

    I also heard comedian Billy Connolly remark upon how his fellow Scots have a deep abiding love for singing epic homesick songs whilst still blissfully living at home. Picture the scene, if you will...

    It is Hogmanay; the family is gathered joyfully in the kitchen just after the ritual crossing of arms
and joining of hands while singing Rabbie's most famous song at "the Bells". The hugging and kissing
and well-wishing has petered out, the first first-footers have yet to make an appearance, and the father,
well lubricated now by several tots of Talisker and tear brimming in corner of eye, draws breath to
regale all and sundry with his party piece:
Father:       "Tho' Ah'm far acrrrrrross the sea..."

Smartass Son: "Ye are not, Dad!
               Ye're in your own house here in Springburn!"

Mother:      "You be quiet, wee man!
              It's the only song your father knows right through."


 


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