What we will do with a drunken sailor?

What We Will Do with a Drunken Sailor?

The sea has long been a popular and powerful symbol in many cultures, representing freedom, adventure, and the unknown. In nautical folklore, the phrase "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a well-known traditional chantey, often sung while working on a ship during long voyages. This article will explore the history behind the phrase and discuss possible answers to this infamous question.

What Is a Chantey?

Before we delve into the world of a "drunken sailor," it’s essential to understand the concept of a chantey. A chantey (or shanty) is a type of sea shanty, a song sung by sailors while working on a ship. Shanties were typically used to coordinate physical tasks, such as lifting heavy objects or hauling ropes. These songs were sung while the work was being performed, serving as a means to coordinate efforts, lighten the load, and lift the mood.

What Does "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" Mean?

This popular chantey was usually sung when a crew member had indulged in excessive drinking, leading to disruptive and uncoordinated behavior. The song asked a question that echoed across the decks: "What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" The question sparked lively discussions among the sailors, who would improvise possible answers to deal with their inebriated companion.

Traditional Answers to the Question

During the 19th century, sailors would improvise and come up with a wide range of responses, from the humorous to the scathing. Some classic answers include:

• "Shave his belly with a rusty razor!" (Highlighting the cruelty of punishment)
• "Stick him in the scuppers with a hosepipe bottom!" (Alluding to the threat of dunking the drunkard in the sea)
• "Put him in a long boat ’til his sober!" (Punishing the offender with forced sobriety)

Historical Significance

The origins of the chantey can be traced back to the golden age of sailing (1800-1850s). During this time, maritime trade and exploration became more prominent, leading to increased numbers of sailors, cargo ships, and travel between continents. With extended voyages came periods of isolation, boredom, and occasional excess drinking, creating a need for lighthearted songs like this chantey to cope with the challenges and uncertainties of life at sea.

Modern-Day Answers to the Question

Today, sailors and landlubbers alike continue to use "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" as a popular culture phenomenon, with adaptations ranging from modern songs to performances at cultural festivals. New, imaginative answers to the question are still being discovered:

• "Send him on a digital detox with no phone or Wi-Fi!"
• "Put him on the deck and watch the tide rise!"
• "Replace his rum ration with coconut water and healthy snacks!"

In the Realm of Education

Singers, educators, and entertainment experts have recognized the timeless appeal of this chantey and its ability to encourage community building, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. They incorporate "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" into school and workplace settings, highlighting:

Conclusion

"What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is an engaging piece of maritime history and an enduring testament to human ingenuity, wit, and camaraderie. Through its evolution and widespread appeal, this traditional chantey has transcended eras, cultures, and sea-borne professions. When posed with this eternal question, we can rest assured that the world of sea and land will forever cherish and adapt this tale, inviting us to creatively concoct solutions for even the most wayward and troublesome companions.

Call to Action

As the legend lives on, you too can join the chantey by:

• Writing down your own answers to "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" on social media
• Hosting a sing-along party at your local maritime event
• Encouraging family members and friends to compose and share their own answers to this age-old query