What Would You Do with a Drunken Sailor?
The classic sea shanty "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" has been a staple of maritime culture for centuries. The song, which has been passed down through generations, is a call-and-response chant that asks the question: What would you do with a drunken sailor? In this article, we’ll explore the history and significance of the song, as well as some humorous and creative answers to this timeless question.
A Brief History of the Song
The origins of "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the 19th century. The song was likely written by sailors themselves, and its lyrics reflect the camaraderie and humor that characterized life on the high seas. The song’s popularity peaked in the mid-20th century, when it became a staple of folk music and was performed by artists such as Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger.
The Lyrics
The song’s lyrics are simple and repetitive, with each verse asking the question What shall we do with a drunken sailor? and offering a variety of humorous and creative solutions. Some of the most popular answers include:
• Shave his belly with a rusty razor: a gruesome and humorous option that’s often accompanied by a chorus of "way hay and up she rises"
• Put him in a long boat till his sober: a practical solution that involves confining the sailor to a small boat until he’s no longer drunk
• Stick him in a scupper with a hosepipe bottom: a more whimsical option that involves dumping the sailor into a gutter or drainpipe
Creative Solutions
While the original lyrics of the song are humorous and lighthearted, there are many creative and practical solutions that can be offered to a drunken sailor. Here are a few examples:
• Provide a safe ride home: instead of punishing the sailor, why not offer to give him a safe ride home? This option is not only kind but also helps to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of harm to others.
• Give him a warm meal: a hot meal can help to sober up a sailor and provide sustenance after a long day of work. This option is not only practical but also shows compassion and concern for the sailor’s well-being.
• Offer counseling or support: for some sailors, drinking may be a symptom of a deeper issue, such as depression or anxiety. Offering counseling or support services can help to address these underlying issues and promote overall well-being.
Table: Creative Solutions
| Solution | Description |
|---|---|
| Provide a safe ride home | Offer to give the sailor a safe ride home to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of harm to others. |
| Give him a warm meal | Provide a hot meal to help sober up the sailor and provide sustenance after a long day of work. |
| Offer counseling or support | Address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the sailor’s drinking, such as depression or anxiety. |
Conclusion
"What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a timeless and iconic sea shanty that has been entertaining sailors and landlubbers alike for centuries. While the song’s lyrics may be humorous and lighthearted, they also offer a glimpse into the camaraderie and humor that characterized life on the high seas. In this article, we’ve explored the history and significance of the song, as well as some creative and practical solutions that can be offered to a drunken sailor. Whether you’re a sailor or a landlubber, "What Shall We Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is a song that’s sure to bring a smile to your face and a spring to your step.
