What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor?
The classic sea shanty "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" has been a staple of maritime culture for centuries. The song’s catchy melody and repetitive lyrics have made it a favorite among sailors and non-sailors alike. But have you ever stopped to think about what the song is actually asking? In this article, we’ll delve into the history and meaning behind the lyrics, and explore the various interpretations and adaptations of this beloved sea shanty.
What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor?
The lyrics of the song are simple and straightforward: "What shall we do with a drunken sailor, what shall we do? What shall we do with a drunken sailor, early in the morning?" The song’s chorus repeats this question, with different answers provided by the various verses. But what does it mean?
A History of the Song
The origins of "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the 19th century. The song was likely written by sailors, for sailors, and its lyrics reflect the daily struggles and challenges of life at sea. The song’s popularity grew during the golden age of sail, when sailing ships were the primary mode of transportation and commerce.
Interpretations and Adaptations
Over the years, the song has been interpreted and adapted in many ways. Here are a few examples:
- Punishment and Discipline: One interpretation is that the song is a call to discipline and punishment for a sailor who has become drunk on duty. The lyrics may be seen as a way of rallying the crew to take action against a wayward sailor.
- Compassion and Empathy: Another interpretation is that the song is a call to compassion and empathy for a sailor who is struggling with addiction. The lyrics may be seen as a way of acknowledging the sailor’s struggles and offering support and help.
- Humor and Satire: The song can also be seen as a humorous and satirical take on the challenges of life at sea. The lyrics may be intended to poke fun at the absurdity of trying to manage a drunken sailor, rather than taking a serious approach.
What Shall We Do?
So, what shall we do with a drunken sailor? Here are a few possible answers:
- Make Him Walk the Plank: One option is to make the sailor walk the plank, a classic punishment for misbehavior at sea.
- Give Him a Good Scouring: Another option is to give the sailor a good scouring, a form of punishment that involves scrubbing the sailor’s back with a brush and soap.
- Put Him in the Brig: A more serious option is to put the sailor in the brig, a place of confinement for sailors who have broken the rules.
- Give Him a Good Talking To: Finally, some sailors might simply give the drunken sailor a good talking to, trying to reason with him and get him back on track.
Table: What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Make Him Walk the Plank | Punish the sailor by making him walk the plank |
| Give Him a Good Scouring | Punish the sailor by giving him a good scouring |
| Put Him in the Brig | Confine the sailor in the brig |
| Give Him a Good Talking To | Reason with the sailor and try to get him back on track |
Conclusion
"What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a classic sea shanty that has been enjoyed by sailors and non-sailors alike for centuries. The song’s catchy melody and repetitive lyrics have made it a favorite among many, and its various interpretations and adaptations have ensured its continued relevance and popularity. Whether seen as a call to discipline and punishment, compassion and empathy, or humor and satire, the song remains a beloved part of maritime culture. So the next time you hear the song, take a moment to think about what you would do with a drunken sailor – and remember, there’s more to the song than just its catchy melody!
