What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor? Lyrics and History
The classic sea shanty "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" has been a staple of maritime culture for centuries. The song’s lyrics have been passed down through generations, with various interpretations and adaptations. In this article, we’ll dive into the history and significance of the song, and explore the various answers to the question posed in the title.
The Origins of the Song
The exact origin of "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the 19th century. The song is thought to have been written by British or American sailors, who would sing it while performing tasks such as hauling, lifting, and other physical labor on board ships.
The Lyrics
The song typically begins with the following lines:
"What do you do with a drunken sailor?
What do you do with a drunken sailor?
What do you do with a drunken sailor,
Early in the morning?"
The next few lines typically vary, but the general theme remains the same:
"What shall we do with a drunken sailor?
What shall we do with a drunken sailor?
What shall we do with a drunken sailor,
Early in the morning?"
The Various Answers
The song’s lyrics ask a series of questions about what to do with a drunken sailor, and the answers are often humorous, creative, and sometimes dark. Here are a few examples:
• Send him to bed: One common answer is to simply send the sailor to bed, where he can sleep off his intoxication.
• Shave his belly with a rusty razor: This answer is often depicted in illustrations and caricatures, showing a drunken sailor with a shaved belly and a menacing look on his face.
• Put him in a long boat till his sober: This answer suggests putting the sailor in a small boat, where he can stew in his own juices until he sobers up.
• Put him in the scuppers with a hosepipe bottom: This answer is often used as a metaphor for disposing of someone who’s becoming a nuisance.
• Stick him in a scupper with a deck/swab him with a mop: These answers are similar to the previous one, suggesting that the sailor be put in a small area or cleaned up with a mop.
The History and Significance
"What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" has been a part of maritime culture for centuries, and its significance extends beyond its catchy melody and lyrics. The song has:
• Historical Significance: The song has been a part of naval tradition, with sailors using it to pass the time and bond with their fellow crew members.
• Cultural Significance: The song has been interpreted in various ways, with some seeing it as a commentary on the harsh conditions faced by sailors, while others view it as a humorous take on the human condition.
• Influence on Popular Culture: The song has been covered by numerous artists, from folk musicians to rock bands, and has appeared in various films, TV shows, and advertisements.
• Educational Significance: The song has been used as a teaching tool, helping to introduce children to maritime history and the culture of sailing.
Table: Variations of the Song
| Region | Variation |
|---|---|
| United States | "What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" |
| United Kingdom | "What do you do with a drunken sailor?" |
| Canada | "What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" |
| Australia | "What do you do with a drunken sailor?" |
Conclusion
"What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a timeless sea shanty that has captured the imagination of people around the world. Its lyrics and melody have been passed down through generations, with various interpretations and adaptations. The song’s significance extends beyond its catchy melody and lyrics, with historical, cultural, and educational significance making it a staple of maritime culture. Whether you’re a sailor, a music lover, or simply a fan of classic sea shanties, "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a song that’s sure to entertain and inspire.
