What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor?
The infamous sea shanty, "What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor?" has been a beloved classic for generations. Composed in the early 19th century, the song has been passed down through oral tradition and has been recorded by numerous artists over the years. But, what does the song’s title really mean? Is it a question or a statement? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the song, its possible meanings, and what we can do with a drunken sailor.
The History of the Song
The exact authorship of "What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor?" is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. The song was popularized by sailors and laborers who sang it as a work song, with the repetitive chorus allowing workers to synchronize their tasks while performing physically demanding jobs such as hauling ropes or pumping water.
The song’s melody is thought to have been inspired by traditional English folk songs, and the lyrics are believed to be a commentary on the hardships faced by sailors and workers during the Industrial Revolution.
Possible Meanings of the Song
So, what does the title of the song really mean? Is it a question or a statement? There are a few possible interpretations:
• Question: One possible interpretation is that the song is asking for suggestions or ideas on what to do with a drunken sailor. This could be seen as a call to action, encouraging listeners to come up with creative solutions to the problem of dealing with a tipsy sailor.
• Statement: Another interpretation is that the song is stating a fact: what are we going to do with the drunken sailor? In this case, the song is acknowledging that the problem exists and that it’s up to us to find a solution.
• Social Commentary: Some interpreters see the song as a commentary on the treatment of sailors and workers during the Industrial Revolution. The "drunken sailor" could be a metaphor for the exploitation and mistreatment of workers by their employers.
What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor?
So, what can we do with a drunken sailor? Here are a few possible solutions:
• Let Him Go: One option is to simply let the sailor be. After all, getting drunk is a common problem among sailors and workers, and it’s not as if it’s a unique issue.
• Provide Support: Another option is to provide support to the sailor. This could mean offering a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, or even a temporary place to stay.
• Intervene: A third option is to intervene. This could mean taking away the sailor’s keys, or helping him get home safely. In extreme cases, it might even mean reporting the sailor to his superiors.
Table: Possible Solutions to Dealing with a Drunken Sailor
| Solution | Description |
|---|---|
| Let Him Go | Allow the sailor to continue in his drunken state, potentially causing harm to himself or others. |
| Provide Support | Offer emotional support, a temporary place to stay, or other forms of assistance. |
| Intervene | Take action to stop the sailor from causing harm, such as taking away his keys or reporting him to his superiors. |
Conclusion
"What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor?" is a classic sea shanty that has been passed down through generations. While its meaning may be open to interpretation, one thing is clear: the song is a commentary on the challenges faced by sailors and workers during the Industrial Revolution.
Whether you see the song as a question, a statement, or a commentary, one thing is certain: dealing with a drunken sailor is a complex issue that requires a thoughtful and compassionate approach. By providing support, intervening when necessary, or simply letting the sailor be, we can work together to create a more understanding and compassionate world.
So, what shall we do with the drunken sailor? The answer is up to us.
