What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor Lyrics?
The traditional sea shanty "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a classic song that has been passed down for generations. The song’s lyrics have been interpreted in many ways, and its meaning is still debated among music enthusiasts today. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the song, its lyrics, and what they might mean.
History of the Song
The origins of "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" are unclear, but it is believed to have been written in the 19th century. The song was likely sung by sailors on merchant ships and naval vessels, and its purpose was to help coordinate tasks and keep spirits high while working.
Lyrics of the Song
Here are the traditional lyrics to "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?":
Verse 1
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?
Chorus
Shave his belly with a rusty razor,
Early in the morning!
Verse 2
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?
Chorus
Shave his belly with a rusty razor,
Early in the morning!
Verse 3
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?
Chorus
Shave his belly with a rusty razor,
Early in the morning!
Interpretation of the Lyrics
So, what do you do with a drunken sailor? The lyrics of the song suggest that the options are limited. The only activity mentioned is shaving his belly with a rusty razor. This has led some to interpret the song as a commentary on the brutal treatment of sailors who became drunk on the job. Others have seen it as a humorous take on the challenges of dealing with a drunk colleague.
Shaving the Belly
Shaving the belly with a rusty razor is a vivid and gruesome image. In the 19th century, razors were often made of steel and not as sharp as modern razors. Using a rusty razor to shave someone’s belly would be a painful and potentially dangerous experience. This could be seen as a form of punishment or humiliation for the drunken sailor.
Other Interpretations
Some have interpreted the song as a commentary on the harsh conditions faced by sailors in the 19th century. The song may be highlighting the challenges of working on a ship, where sailors were exposed to harsh weather, physical labor, and limited recreational activities. The drunken sailor may be a symbol of the stress and frustration that sailors felt.
Influence of the Song
"What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" has had a significant influence on popular culture. The song has been covered by many artists, including The Weavers, The Beach Boys, and The Irish Rovers. It has also been featured in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions.
Table of Interpretations
Here is a table summarizing the different interpretations of the song:
| Interpretation | Description |
|---|---|
| Brutal Treatment | The song is a commentary on the harsh treatment of sailors who became drunk on the job. |
| Humorous Take | The song is a humorous take on the challenges of dealing with a drunk colleague. |
| Commentary on Harsh Conditions | The song highlights the challenges faced by sailors in the 19th century, including harsh weather and physical labor. |
| Symbolism | The drunken sailor is a symbol of the stress and frustration faced by sailors. |
Conclusion
"What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a classic sea shanty that has been interpreted in many ways. While its meaning is still debated among music enthusiasts, the song remains a beloved classic. Whether seen as a commentary on harsh conditions, a humorous take on a difficult situation, or a symbol of stress and frustration, the song continues to be a powerful and enduring work of music.
