What Do We Do with the Drunken Sailor?
The classic nautical shanty, "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" has been a staple of maritime culture for centuries. The song’s refrain, "What shall we do with a drunken sailor, what shall we do with a drunken sailor?" has been echoed by sailors and landlubbers alike, sparking a debate that has continued to this day. In this article, we’ll explore the possible answers to this age-old question.
The Origins of the Song
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a brief look at the origins of the song. "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is believed to have originated in the 19th century, during the Golden Age of Sail. The exact authorship is unknown, but it’s thought to have been written by British or American sailors. The song’s lyrics are a comical take on the troubles of dealing with a fellow sailor who has had too much to drink.
The Problem with a Drunken Sailor
So, what’s the problem with a drunken sailor? On the surface, it might seem like a minor annoyance, but a drunken sailor can pose a significant threat to the safety and efficiency of a ship. Some of the problems associated with a drunken sailor include:
• Loss of skills: A drunken sailor can become a liability in critical situations, such as during navigation, repairs, or emergency situations.
• Disruption of routine: A drunken sailor can disrupt the normal routine of the ship, causing delays and decreasing morale among other crew members.
• Safety risks: A drunken sailor can pose a risk to themselves and others on board, whether through reckless behavior or loss of coordination.
• Discipline issues: A drunken sailor can undermine authority and discipline on board, leading to further problems.
The Solutions
So, what shall we do with a drunken sailor? Here are some possible solutions:
Table: Possible Solutions
| Solution | Description |
|---|---|
| Let him sleep it off | Allow the sailor to sleep off their intoxication, under close supervision |
| Confine to quarters | Confine the sailor to their quarters for a period of time, to prevent further mischief |
| Assign extra duties | Assign the sailor extra duties, such as cleaning or maintenance tasks, to keep them occupied and sober |
| Demote or punish | Demote or punish the sailor for their behavior, as a deterrent to others |
| Seek professional help | Seek the help of a medical professional or counselor to address any underlying issues contributing to the sailor’s drinking problem |
Let Him Sleep it Off
One of the most common solutions is to simply let the sailor sleep off their intoxication. This approach is often used for sailors who are not severely intoxicated, but are simply unable to perform their duties. By allowing them to sleep it off, you can prevent further disruptions and ensure that the sailor is able to recover and resume their duties in a responsible manner.
Confine to Quarters
Confining a drunken sailor to their quarters is another common solution. This approach is often used for sailors who are causing a disturbance or posing a risk to themselves or others. By confining them to their quarters, you can prevent further mischief and ensure that the sailor is unable to cause harm.
Assign Extra Duties
Assigning a drunken sailor extra duties is another possible solution. This approach is often used for sailors who are still able to perform some duties, but are not quite sober enough to perform their normal tasks. By assigning them extra duties, you can keep them occupied and sober, while also demonstrating that their behavior will not be tolerated.
Demote or Punish
Demoting or punishing a drunken sailor is a more severe solution. This approach is often used for sailors who have a history of intoxication or have caused significant disruptions on board. By demoting or punishing the sailor, you can send a clear message that their behavior will not be tolerated, and can help to restore discipline and order on the ship.
Seek Professional Help
Finally, if a sailor’s drinking problem is severe or persistent, it may be necessary to seek the help of a medical professional or counselor. This approach is often used for sailors who are struggling with addiction or other mental health issues. By seeking professional help, you can provide the sailor with the support and resources they need to overcome their addiction and resume their duties in a responsible manner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what shall we do with a drunken sailor? The answer is not a simple one, and depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of the intoxication, the sailor’s behavior, and the circumstances of the situation. Whether you choose to let him sleep it off, confine him to quarters, assign him extra duties, demote or punish him, or seek professional help, the key is to find a solution that promotes safety, efficiency, and discipline on board. So, the next time you find yourself singing "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?", you’ll have a better idea of what to do with that drunken sailor!
