The national anthem O Canada was composed by French-Canadian Calixa Lavalée. It is sung in both English and French. The lyrics of the French version are quite different from those of the English version. To compare, I will provide first the English lyrics followed by my translation of the French lyrics.
O Canada
O Canada, our home and native land,
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The true north strong and free.
From far and wide, O Canada,
We stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee!
O Canada
O Canada, land of our forefathers,
Your brow is surrounded by flower garlands
Because your arm knows how to carry the sword.
It knows how to carry the cross.
Your history is an epic of the most brilliant exploits.
And your valour, steeped by faith,
Will protect our homes and our rights,
Will protect our homes and our rights.
The official English version of O Canada has replaced thy sons with of us, but I have kept the original lyrics because I prefer them.
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