What Do We Do with the Drunken Sailor Lyrics?
The song "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a traditional sea shanty that has been sung by sailors for centuries. The lyrics have been passed down through generations, and today, the song remains a popular favorite among sailors, musicians, and music lovers alike. But have you ever wondered what the song is actually about? What do we do with the drunken sailor, indeed?
The Origins of the Song
The origins of the song are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century. One theory is that the song was written by British sailors who were stationed in the Caribbean, where rum was a staple drink. The song’s lyrics are thought to refer to the problem of drunkenness among sailors, which was a common issue in the days of sail.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of the song are simple and repetitive, with each verse asking the question "What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" followed by a series of humorous and often absurd suggestions. Here are some of the most common lyrics:
- 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?- Shave his belly with a rusty razor,
Early in the morning! - Stick him in a scupper with a hosepipe bottom,
Early in the morning! - Put him in the bed with the captains daughter,
Early in the morning!
The Meaning of the Lyrics
So, what do we do with a drunken sailor? The lyrics of the song offer a range of humorous and often ridiculous suggestions. The song is not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a way of poking fun at the problem of drunkenness among sailors.
The lyrics can be seen as a commentary on the excesses of the sailors, who would often drink to excess and become violent and disorderly. The song’s suggestions, such as shaving the sailor’s belly with a rusty razor or putting him in bed with the captain’s daughter, are clearly meant to be humorous and are not meant to be taken seriously.
The Impact of the Song
The song has had a significant impact on popular culture, with versions of the song being recorded by artists such as Stan Rogers, The Dubliners, and The Pogues. The song has also been featured in films, television shows, and stage productions.
Variations of the Song
There are many variations of the song, with different lyrics and melodies. Some versions are more serious and somber, while others are more humorous and playful. Here are a few examples:
- Sea Shanty Version: This is the most well-known version of the song, with the lyrics listed above.
- Folk Version: This version is often performed by folk musicians and has a more mellow and introspective tone.
- Pirate Version: This version is often performed by pirate-themed bands and has a more upbeat and energetic tone.
- Children’s Version: This version is often performed by children’s musicians and has a more playful and humorous tone.
Table of Variations
Version | Characteristics | Example Artists |
---|---|---|
Sea Shanty Version | Traditional, serious, and somber | Stan Rogers, The Dubliners |
Folk Version | Mellow, introspective, and acoustic | Joan Baez, Bob Dylan |
Pirate Version | Upbeat, energetic, and swashbuckling | The Pogues, Flogging Molly |
Children’s Version | Playful, humorous, and educational | Raffi, The Wiggles |
Conclusion
"What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a traditional sea shanty that has been sung by sailors for centuries. The song’s lyrics are a commentary on the problem of drunkenness among sailors, and offer a range of humorous and often ridiculous suggestions. The song has had a significant impact on popular culture, with versions being recorded by artists from around the world. Whether you’re a sailor, a musician, or just a music lover, "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a song that is sure to bring a smile to your face.