Song of the Midnight Isle
 Early sheet music of the Song of the Midnight Isles, now preserved at Joseph Town Cathedral. | |
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National anthem of the South Sea Islands | |
| Also known as | The South Seas Proclamation |
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| Lyrics | Hans Reitsma, 1576 |
| Music | Unknown |
| Adopted | 1576 |
The Song of the Midnight Isles is the national anthem of the Commonwealth of the South Sea Islands. The lyrics were written in 1576 by church organist Hans Reitsma in response to an appeal by the national government for potential national anthems. Sung to the tune of an existing and popular folk song, Reitsma's proposal was adapted by the Legislative Assembly of the South Sea Islands on July 10th of 1576.
Prior to this, the South Sea Islands used the national anthem of Nova England, which is now retained as a Royal anthem in honour of his Royal Majesty King Josephus I.
Sung at formal civic and governmental events in the islands, the Song of the Midnight Isles is also used by sports teams representing the South Sea Islands.
Context
The name of the anthem refers to the nighttime sighting of Trinity Island by the SS.Endeavour in May 1501, which resulted in the establishment of the South Sea Islands as an independent nation.
The lyrics refer to both Trinity Island and Grand Wulfram, as well as referring to the climatic conditions of the islands.
Lyrics
The original lyrics written in 1576 by Hans Reitsma are still in use today. In official usage, both verses of the anthem are sung, as opposed to the first verse alone.
By the moon they saw them, in a story that has been long told
those lands that the Endeavour found, sailing from islands old.
The Midnight Isles amongst the waves and crashing foam,
savior firm amongst the ice, our islands and our home.
Though land may crack, waters freeze and strong winds blow,
Trinity and Wulfram stand warm in my heart, wherever I may go.
From our birthplace and refuge let the song of our islands ring,
until all Micras comes to hear of the Midnight Isles, by this song we sing.
