No Irish Need Apply

NO IRISH NEED APPLY

I'm a decent boy just landed
From the town of Ballyfad;
I want a situation, yes,
And want it very bad.
I have seen employment advertised,
"It's just the thing," says I,
"But the dirty spalpeen ended with
'No Irish Need Apply.' "

"Whoa," says I, "that's an insult,
But to get the place I'll try,"
So I went to see the blackguard
With his "No Irish Need Apply."

Some do count it a misfortune
To be christened Pat or Dan,
But to me it is an honor
To be born an Irishman.

I started out to find the house,
I got it mighty soon;
There I found the old chap seated,
He was reading the Tribune.
I told him what I came for,
When he in a rage did fly,
"No!" he says, "You are a Paddy,
And no Irish need apply."

Then I gets my dander rising
And I'd like to black his eye
To tell an Irish gentleman
"No Irish Need Apply."

Some do count it a misfortune
To be christened Pat or Dan,
But to me it is an honor
To be born an Irishman.

I couldn't stand it longer
So a hold of him I took,
And gave him such a welting
As he'd get at Donnybrook.
He hollered, "Milia murther,"
And to get away did try,
And swore he'd never write again
"No Irish Need Apply."

Well he made a big apology,
I told him then goodbye,
Saying, "When next you want a beating,
Write `No Irish Need Apply.' "

Some do count it a misfortune
To be christened Pat or Dan,
But to me it is an honor
To be born an Irishman.

1. According to this song, what problem did Irish immigrants encounter once they arrived in America?

2. How is it that the author illustrates pride in his Irish heritage?

3. According to the song, how does the young Irishman get his revenge?

4. It is a common Irish stereotype that Irishmen often engage in fights, does this song follow this stereotype?  Do you think that this song could still offer pride to Irish immigrants despite of the stereotype?

5. How might this song be used to deter Irish immigration to the USA even though it is written in support of Irish?

6. What do you think inspired this author to write this song?