I lived from 1854-1920. I was from Ireland, and am in the English category.
William Percy French was the son of a landlord and a clergyman's daughter. He studied engineering at Trinity College, where he spent a lot of time in song writing, dramatics, banjo playing and watercolour painting. After graduation he was on the verge of emigrating to Canada, but was appointed to a post in a government drainage scheme in Cavan. He was a self-styled 'Inspector of Drains' for seven years.
In 1891, his first wife, Ettie, died in childbirth, as did his baby daughter. he toured the country on his bicycle with a box of paints, painting and performing. He developed a one-man show, where he sang the songs he composed. At fifty, French moved to London and performed on stage until his death in 1920.
In 1891, his first wife, Ettie, died in childbirth, as did his baby daughter. he toured the country on his bicycle with a box of paints, painting and performing. He developed a one-man show, where he sang the songs he composed. At fifty, French moved to London and performed on stage until his death in 1920.
My poetry
- The sons of the Prophet are brave men and bold
And quite unaccustomed to fear,56 lines, 4 comments - Long, long ago in the woods of Gortnamona,
I thought the birds were singing in the blackthorn tree;12 lines, 3 comments - When painters leave this world, we grieve
For the hand that will work no more,12 lines, 3 comments - A parody of "If I Should Die" by Benjamin Franklin King (1857-1894).22 lines
- Oh Mary this London's a wonderful sight
With people here workin' by day and by night24 lines - My brother Andy said, that for a soldier he would go,
So great excitement came upon the house of McElroe.37 lines - The Midland Great Western is doing its best,
And the circular ticket is safe in my vest;20 lines
