She never said an unkind word
Always prim and proper
Embodiment of the nation
Yes she was a topper
Her personal life was not for us
Her public role the issue
She did it well and patiently
So now we reach for tissue
She stood above the public fray
Her role as unifier
Symbol of a higher way
Faith and duty by her
She did not dance to any tune
But enjoyed a highland fling
My nephew was her personal chef
And soda bread he’d bring
Nice to think my mammy’s bread
Glencullen recipe
Was served unto Her Highness
Asked for specially
My nephew shed a quiet tear
Remembering days gone by
His grandma’s bread for royalty
His one time family
Brian Fahy
9 September 2022
Erris Poetry 