Bonny Portmore

Loreena McKennitt's 'Bonny Portmore' is a hauntingly beautiful lament that mourns the destruction of the natural world, symbolized by the felling of a great oak tree. The song is steeped in a deep sense of loss and nostalgia, reflecting on the irreversible damage done to the environment. The oak tree, which once stood proudly on the shores of Portmore, represents not just a single tree but the broader devastation of nature. The lyrics evoke a poignant image of the tree being taken away by boats, a metaphor for the relentless exploitation of natural resources.

The song also touches on themes of memory and longing. The repeated lines, 'If I had you now as I had once before,' express a deep yearning for the past, a time when nature was more pristine and untouched. This longing is not just personal but collective, as it speaks to a broader human desire to return to a time when the natural world was more respected and cherished. The mention of 'all the Lords in Old England' underscores the idea that no amount of wealth or power can replace what has been lost.

Furthermore, the song highlights the interconnectedness of all living things. The birds in the forest 'bitterly weep,' asking where they shall find shelter now that the oak and ash trees have been cut down. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder that the destruction of one part of the ecosystem affects the entire web of life. McKennitt's ethereal voice and the melancholic melody amplify the song's emotional impact, making 'Bonny Portmore' not just a song but a poignant plea for environmental preservation.