What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?
The age-old question that has puzzled many a sailor, parent, and concerned citizen for centuries. The phrase "What do you do with a drunken sailor?" is a popular nautical shanty that has been passed down through generations, but what does it really mean? In this article, we’ll delve into the history behind the song, the possible meanings, and most importantly, what you can do with a drunken sailor.
History of the Song
The origins of the song "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century. The song is thought to have been written by British sailors, who would sing it as a way to pass the time while at sea. The song’s lyrics are a series of humorous and often nonsensical suggestions for what to do with a sailor who has had too much to drink.
Possible Meanings
So, what does the song really mean? There are a few different interpretations, but the most common one is that the song is a commentary on the difficulties of dealing with a sailor who has become intoxicated. The lyrics offer a series of tongue-in-cheek suggestions for what to do with the sailor, ranging from the ridiculous (such as "Shave his belly with a rusty razor") to the practical (such as "Put him in a longboat till his sober").
What to Do with a Drunken Sailor
So, what can you do with a drunken sailor? Here are a few suggestions:
- Call a Taxi: If the sailor is in a safe location, such as a bar or a friend’s home, you can call a taxi to take them home.
- Get Them a Bed: If the sailor is too intoxicated to be left alone, you can offer them a bed to sleep it off.
- Call a Doctor: If the sailor is in danger of harming themselves or others, you should call a doctor or other medical professional for assistance.
- Give Them a Chance to Sleep It Off: Sometimes, the best thing to do is to let the sailor sleep it off and deal with the consequences in the morning.
Table: What to Do with a Drunken Sailor
| Situation | Action |
|---|---|
| Safe location, such as a bar or friend’s home | Call a taxi |
| Too intoxicated to be left alone | Get them a bed |
| In danger of harming themselves or others | Call a doctor |
| Need to sleep it off | Give them a chance to sleep it off |
Consequences of Intoxication
It’s important to remember that intoxication can have serious consequences, including:
- Accidents: Intoxicated individuals are more likely to be involved in accidents, which can result in injury or even death.
- Violence: Intoxicated individuals are more likely to engage in violent behavior, which can result in harm to themselves or others.
- Health Problems: Intoxication can lead to a range of health problems, including hangovers, blackouts, and long-term damage to the liver and other organs.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
So, what can you do to prevent the need to deal with a drunken sailor? Here are a few suggestions:
- Monitor Their Drinking: Keep an eye on how much your sailor is drinking and try to intervene if they start to become intoxicated.
- Encourage Responsible Drinking: Encourage your sailor to drink responsibly and in moderation.
- Plan Ahead: Make sure your sailor has a safe way home, such as a designated driver or a ride-sharing service.
- Talk to Them: If your sailor is struggling with addiction or substance abuse, talk to them about seeking help.
Conclusion
"What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a song that has been passed down through generations, but the question it poses is a serious one. Intoxication can have serious consequences, but by being aware of the risks and taking steps to prevent them, you can help keep your sailor safe. Whether you’re a sailor, a parent, or a concerned citizen, it’s important to know what to do with a drunken sailor.
