What do You do with the drunken sailor lyrics?

What do You do with the Drunken Sailor Lyrics?

Introduction

"What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" is a traditional folk song that has been a part of maritime culture for centuries. The song has been passed down through generations, with variations and adaptations emerging over time. In this article, we will delve into the history of the song, its meanings, and its cultural significance. We will also examine the lyrics, exploring their context and interpretation.

Origins of the Song

The exact origin of "What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" is unknown, but it is believed to have emerged in the 18th century. The song was likely sung by sailors and naval personnel to pass the time, and its content may have been influenced by the harsh realities of life at sea.

Meaning of the Lyrics

The lyrics of the song are a call-and-response between the lead singer and the chorus, asking and answering the question of what to do with a drunken sailor. The lyrics can be interpreted in several ways, including:

• As a commentary on the issue of drunkenness and the problems it causes
• As a expression of sympathy and concern for the welfare of the drunken sailor
• As a tongue-in-cheek look at the difficulties of dealing with a drunk person

Historical Context

The song was likely sung in a naval context, where the issues of drunkenness were particularly relevant. Sailors and naval personnel often found themselves in situations where they had to deal with drunk or intoxicated individuals, which could lead to problems such as:

• Mutiny: A drunk sailor could become violent or irrational, leading to potential conflicts with other crew members or even mutiny.
• Disability: Drunkenness could impair a sailor’s ability to perform their duties, putting the entire ship and crew at risk.
• Shame and Embarrassment: The consequences of being drunk in a naval context could be severe, with the potential for court-martial or dishonorable discharge.

Variations and Adaptations

Over time, the song has been adapted and modified in various ways. Some notable variations include:

• Chord Progressions: The song has been rearranged to accommodate different musical styles and chord progressions.
• Lyrical Changes: Some versions of the song have changed or omitted certain lyrics to better fit the needs and tastes of specific groups.
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• Musical Styles: The song has been performed in a range of musical styles, from folk and sea shanty to rock and pop.

Cultural Significance

"What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" has become an integral part of maritime culture and is often sung as a rousing sea shanty. The song has been performed by numerous artists, including:

• Peter, Paul and Mary: The folk trio recorded a popular version of the song in the 1960s.
• The Irish Rovers: The Irish folk band recorded a version of the song for their 1973 album "The Best of the Irish Rovers".
• The Dubliners: The Irish folk band has performed the song live and on record numerous times throughout their career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the song:

• What does the song mean?: The song is a call-and-response that asks and answers the question of what to do with a drunken sailor.
• Where did the song come from?: The exact origin of the song is unknown, but it is believed to have emerged in the 18th century.
• Is the song only for sailors?: While the song has strong connections to the maritime culture, it has been adapted and performed by numerous artists and groups beyond the sailing community.

Conclusion

"What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" is a timeless and enduring folk song that has become an integral part of maritime culture. Its lyrics are a commentary on the issues of drunkenness and the difficulties of dealing with a drunk person. Whether sung by sailors or non-sailors, the song remains a beloved and iconic part of music and cultural heritage.

Table: Adaptations of the Song

Additional Resources

• "Shanties and Sailors" by Stan Hugill (1950)
• "The Oxford Book of Sea Songs" edited by Stan Hugill (1965)
• "The Cambridge Companion to Folk Music" edited by Peter Kennedy (2010)