What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?
One of the most iconic sea shanties of all time, "What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?" is a rousing tune that has been sung by sailors and musicians alike for centuries. But what does it really mean? And how did this song become so beloved and enduring?
The Origins of the Song
The exact origin of "What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?" is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the 18th or 19th century, during the height of British and American sea trade. The song’s melody is thought to be based on an old British folk song, while the lyrics were likely written by a sailor or a maritime musician.
The Question of the Song
The song’s title, "What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?", seems simple enough, but its meaning is actually quite complex. In essence, the song is asking what do you do with a sailor who has been drinking excessively and is now unable to perform their duties. The lyrics of the song are not just a fun, rhythmic chant, but are actually a practical guide to dealing with a drunken sailor.
Here are some of the traditional answers to the question:
• Shave his belly with a rusty razor: a rather gruesome fate, which may have been a warning to the drunken sailor that he would suffer the consequences of his actions.
• Stick him in the scuppers with a hosepipe below: this line is thought to refer to the act of shoving the sailor into a small, cramped space with a hosepipe (or pipe) connecting it to the ship’s bilge.
• Put him in the longboat till his sober: this answer suggests that the drunken sailor would be removed from the ship and placed in the longboat (a smaller boat used to transport sailors or supplies) until he is sober.
• Give ‘im a keelhaul or make him walk the plank: these two lines suggest more drastic measures, including keelhauling (dragging the sailor under the ship’s keel) or making him walk the plank (a potentially deadly act).
Why is this Song So Popular?
So why has "What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?" endured for so long? There are several reasons:
• Practical purpose: the song served as a way for sailors to communicate with each other in a practical and efficient way, by sharing information about how to deal with a drunken colleague.
• Musicality: the song’s catchy melody and rhythmic lyrics make it a pleasure to sing and play, which has contributed to its enduring popularity.
• Nostalgia: the song’s association with the golden age of sail and the seafaring traditions of the past has made it a beloved anthem among sailors, musicians, and history buffs.
How to Sing and Play "What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?"
If you’re interested in singing or playing this classic sea shanty, here’s a breakdown of the melody and lyrics:
Melody
The melody of "What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?" is thought to be based on an old British folk song. The tune is typically sung in a 4/4 time rhythm, with a slow, deliberate pace.
Lyrics
Here are the traditional lyrics to the song:
What do you do with a drunken sailor?
What do you do with a drunken sailor?
What do you do with a drunken sailor,
Early in the morning?
Shave his belly with a rusty razor,
Shave his belly with a rusty razor,
Shave his belly with a rusty razor,
Early in the morning!
Stick him in the scuppers with a hosepipe below,
Stick him in the scuppers with a hosepipe below,
Stick him in the scuppers with a hosepipe below,
Early in the morning!
Put him in the longboat till his sober,
Put him in the longboat till his sober,
Put him in the longboat till his sober,
Early in the morning!
Give ‘im a keelhaul or make him walk the plank,
Give ‘im a keelhaul or make him walk the plank,
Give ‘im a keelhaul or make him walk the plank,
Early in the morning!
Conclusion
"What Do You with a Drunken Sailor?" is a song that has captivated audiences for centuries. Its complex lyrics and practical purpose make it a beloved anthem among sailors and musicians alike. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or just someone who enjoys a good sea shanty, this song is sure to delight and entertain. So the next time you hear someone asking "What do you do with a drunken sailor?", you’ll be ready with a rousing rendition of this classic sea shanty!
