Decoding the Meaning Behind ‘What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor’ Lyrics

Decoding the Lyrics: Understanding What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor

The sea shanty “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor” is an infectious, toe-tapping song that has been around for centuries. But have you ever stopped to think about what it’s actually about? In this blog post, we’re going to decode the lyrics and take a closer look at the history behind this beloved tune.

First off, let’s break down the chorus:

What do we do with a drunken sailor?
What do we do with a drunken sailor?
What do we do with a drunken sailor
Early in the morning?

The repetition of this question gives us an insight into the mindset of sailors during this time period. Drinking was not uncommon among seafarers, but it was frowned upon when considered excessive. Hence, there were few suggestions which were made for dealing with such issues.

The first verse goes:

Way hey and up she rises,
Way hey and up she rises,
Way hey and up she rises
Early in the morning.

This line may seem like nonsensical gibberish to some who are unfamiliar with maritime terminology – “up she rises” refers to raising the sails on a ship. Captains and crew members would often wake early in the morning to begin preparations for departure or arrival at port. The phraseology also expresses certain exuberance which triggers nostalgia/romanticism about their profession.

The next verse goes:

Port side! Starboard!
Port side! Starboard!
Port side! Starboard!
Early in the morning!

Portside and starboard refer to left and right sides of ships from sailors’ perspective. Early use of clock-based nautical direction means that they used ‘star’ as navigation waypoint when there were no clouds obstructing view of sky at night-time so they could chart their way across hemisphere based on based on relative positions of stars.

This part of the shanty highlights the importance of teamwork and coordination among the crew. When giving commands or performing duties, sailors had to be efficient and on the same page to ensure safe passage.

The third verse goes:

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.

This creates an interesting visual – but it’s not exactly what you may think. Shaving was actually pretty important for sailors because hair can carry lice and other diseases that would spread easily in close quarters on long voyages. And when it comes to rusty razors, sailors were unfortunately stuck with what was on hand – they weren’t typically able to run out and buy new ones while out at sea.

The final verse is perhaps the most well-known:

Put him in the longboat till he’s sober,
Put him in the longboat till he’s sober,
Put him in the longboat till he’s sober
Early in the morning.

A longboat is a smaller boat that would be put down from the side of a ship when necessary, such as when coming into port where there are shallows. The idea here was to isolate the intoxicated sailor until they were no longer under the influence – this way, they wouldn’t pose a danger to themselves or others onboard.

So there you have it! Though “What Do We Do With A Drunken Sailor” may seem like a silly song at first, its lyrics shed light on an integral part of maritime history. It tells us about how sailing life was lived day by day– punctuated by hard work, coordination-based recreation amid grueling physical hardships often faced by seafarers while navigating vast unknowns of ocean waves for weeks without end. Even today this song still has a special place among sailor communities worldwide due to its storied past which inspires pride among them even after centuries have passed by.

Step-by-Step Guide to Singing What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor

Singing sea shanties is all the rage these days–and what better way to join in the fun than belting out “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor”? This classic tune has been around for centuries and has become a staple of maritime culture. So, let’s dive in and learn how to sing it like a pro!

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Melody

The first step in singing “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor” is to know the melody inside and out. The song’s structure follows an easy-to-remember pattern that makes it simple for anyone to follow along. Listen to different versions of the song, pay attention to how various artists interpret it, and identify different variations of the melody.

Step 2: Find Your Range

Once you’re familiar with the basic melody, figure out which part of your range will work best for this song. Singing this type of music requires a lot of energy and strength from your voice, so it’s crucial to pick a comfortable range that won’t strain your vocal chords.

Step 3: Embrace Your Inner Sailor

It may sound silly, but singing pirate songs like “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor” requires enthusiasm and performance skills. One thing you’ll need is good breath management – after all, these sea shanties were sung by sailors while they worked – meaning strong diaphragmatic breathing is essential! Add some acting chops–many seasoned singers suggest summoning your inner seafarer when belting out “Yo-ho-ho!” Finding ways to roll your R’s or letting loose on consonants such as ‘R’ or ‘T’ can give an added spring in each note.

Step 4: Mastering Vocal Dynamics

Pay close attention to dynamics while learning how to sing “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor”. Try using crescendos (gradually getting louder over time) and decrescendos (gradually getting softer), allowing you to add more variety in your interpretation. Dynamics give weight to the tune, adding emotion or indication further into what is happening within the song. The overall sound takes on an energetic character when delivered with vocal dynamics.

Step 5: Practice Makes Perfect

As with everything, consistency is key when mastering a song. So it’s essential to practice regularly until you’re comfortable with singing “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor”. If possible, practice with friends or choir group for support and camaraderie (these sea shanties are best enjoyed when sung as a chorus!) Make a recording of yourself or video – listening back can be an excellent way to spot areas where improvement can be made.

In conclusion, “What Do We Do With A Drunken Sailor” is not only an iconic sea shanty but also an entertaining tune that everyone can sing along to. So, put on your sailor’s hat and let your inner pirate come alive while belting this catchy melody!

Frequently Asked Questions about What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor

As the old sea shanty goes, “What do we do with a drunken sailor? What do we do with a drunken sailor? What do we do with a drunken sailor early in the morning?” It’s a classic tune that has been sung around many a pub and campfire for generations. But what exactly does it mean? And why are people still singing it today?

1. What is “drunken sailor” all about?

The song “What Do We Do With A Drunken Sailor” can be traced back to the 19th century. The lyrics describe the plight of a drunk seaman who is causing trouble onboard ship. The crew is unsure how to deal with his behavior and seeks guidance from their captain on how to handle him.

In reality, being drunk on duty was considered a serious offense during this time period since it endangered both the lives of sailors and others around them as well as equipment and cargo onboard.

2. Is there any historical context behind the song?

According to some historians, the song originated in pubs or alehouses along the waterfront where sailors would go for drinks after returning from their trips at sea. The alcohol consumption among sailors was common because they were typically paid in rum in addition to salaries or wages.

It wasn’t uncommon for these rowdy drinkers to get into brawls or other forms of mischief while under influence, hence creating an atmosphere demanding intervention from law enforcement.

3. Who sings “What Do We Do With A Drunken Sailor”?

This tune has been reinterpreted by multiple performers over centuries ranging from traditional folk music artists including Irish descendants and English folk musicians through punk rock bands like The Pogues, Dropkick Murphys and even pop star Erasure among others.

4. Why is “drunken sailor” still popular today?

People are drawn to songs that have catchy melodies or lyrics that resonate with them on some level – whether it be humor or nostalgia – and “What Do We Do With A Drunken Sailor” fits the bill. Its upbeat tune and repetitive chorus make it a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by all ages and groups.

Moreover, its popularity probably lies in the fact that it represents an aspect of history – and shared cultural heritage – that has not been heavily recorded or remembered otherwise. So, it’s difficult to mirror the sense of camaraderie that a challenging task at sea demands from crew members; especially when their chores involve hard physical labor, breathtaking narratives, pirate attacks and exotic mysteries on distant shores.

In conclusion, the catchy melody of “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor” may have originated several centuries ago but remains relevant today due to its historical context, catchy tune, witty lyrics and humorous nature making it beloved around the globe.

Top 5 facts you didn’t know about the lyrics of What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor

What do you do with a drunken sailor? It’s a classic sea shanty that we’ve all heard at least once in our lives. But did you know that there’s more to this song than just its catchy tune and repetitive chorus? In fact, the lyrics have a rich history filled with hidden meanings and interesting facts that most people are not aware of. So, buckle up as we reveal the top 5 facts about the lyrics of “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor.”

Fact #1: The Origin

Believe it or not, this famous sea shanty has been around since the 1800s. It was first recorded by Richard Runciman Terry in 1927 but originated long before then as an oral tradition among sailors. However, the exact origins of the song are difficult to trace, but many historians believe it was used as a work song during sailing expeditions.

Fact #2: The Meaning Behind The Lyrics

The lyrics of “What Do We Do With A Drunken Sailor” may seem simple on the surface, but they actually represent a harsh reality faced by sailors back then. In those days, drunkenness was considered problematic behavior and was strictly forbidden aboard ships due to the dangers it posed in such tight quarters. Thus, any sailor who got drunk on board would either face punishment or be tossed overboard.

Fact #3: Hidden References To Punishment And Flogging

It’s no secret that life aboard ships back then was pretty harsh for sailors. Hence, many lines in the song refer to discipline and punishment methods used by captains to control drunk sailors. For example: “Put him in bed withthe captain’s daughter” suggests flogging -a brutal punishment often administered to ill-behaved crew members while being tied to wooden beams.

Fact #4: Variations Of The Song Exist

Not everyone is singing the same tune when it comes down to this sea shanty. There are many variations of the song depending on where it is being sung. In America, verses often change over time to reflect regional slang and humor. The Aussies sing their version with a different melody altogether.

Fact #5: The Song Has Been Featured In Pop Culture

While not the originator, British actor Sting recorded a very famous version in 1985 which featured in numerous movies including Muppet Treasure Island (1996), Pearl Harbor (2001) and Shrek (2001). It’s been covered by countless other musicians over the years too!

In conclusion, “What Do We Do With A Drunken Sailor” isn’t just another catchy tune but holds an important place in history as well as providing insight into naval life. So go ahead and enjoy singing along to the rendition you know best, but remember all those hidden meanings beneath the fun facade of this timeless classic!

Variations of What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor around the world

Ahoy mateys! Today we’re setting sail on a musical voyage through the many variations of “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor” from around the world. This traditional folk song has been sung by sailors, fishermen, and seafarers for centuries and has now become a popular children’s song. However, each country has their unique spin on this age-old classic.

Let’s begin with the original version of “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor” that originated in the 19th century in England. The lyrics describe the actions taken when encountering an intoxicated sailor at sea: “What do we do with a drunken sailor? Early in the morning! Way back she rises! Way back she rises! Toss him in a longboat ‘till he’s sober.”

Ireland also puts their own touch on this tune by adding Irish folk instruments like flutes and uilleann pipes. Their version is called “Bould Thady Quill,” which tells the story of an angry husband dealing with his adulterous wife who he refers to as Bould Thady Quill.

In France, you might hear “Au clair de la lune,” meaning “By the Light of the Moon.” This frenzied version describes how to revive an overindulged sailor: “Wake him up and shake him up, put him under cold water if he doesn’t come back full of energy, blood should flow again.”

The Germans have adapted this classic sea shanty into a work chantey called “Hoist That Mainsail High.” Their version is focused more on working together to finish tasks successfully rather than how to deal with drunk sailors.

In Canada and the United States, there are various adaptations that include multiple rounds or even parody versions. One variation includes replacing “drunken sailor” with President Kennedy during his administration: “What will we do without President Kennedy? What will we do without him now? Ted Kennedy!”

The most interesting version of all may come from Russia where “Vziatka” (pronounced, “Zhee-at-ka”) is a song that has its origins in the halcyon days of the Czarist Navy. It tells the story of a merchant who comes into port and wishes to buy vodka but has no money. The sailors agree to sell him liquor on credit – and then never let him leave the boat!

Finally, New Zealand’s version adds an extra verse that asks what to do with a hungover sailor: “What do you do when your head is splitting? Early in the morning! Hide away until you’re better and sober.”

In conclusion, it’s fascinating to see how this one musical piece can have so many different meanings and interpretations around the world; from dealing with drunken sailors to parodying past presidents, each country puts their unique spin on this traditional tune. Whatever variation it might be, there’s no denying that “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor” remains a timeless classic loved by people of all ages across borders and oceans alike!

Modern adaptations of What Do We Dp with a Drunken Sailor in popular culture

What do we do with a drunken sailor? Heave-ho, and up she rises! This classic sea shanty has been sung in many an oceangoing vessel, as sailors donned their sou’westers and mucked about on deck. But did you know that this centuries-old tune has found new life in modern popular culture? From movies to TV shows to video games, what once was a simple ditty about a tipsy mariner has become one of the most recognizable tunes around.

One of the earliest examples of the song’s popularity can be traced back to Hollywood. The 1945 film “Anchors Aweigh”, starring Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra, featured a big musical number titled “We Hate to Leave”. In it, the character played by Kelly sings the first verse of “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor?” as part of a comedic routine. The film was a big hit and further solidified the song’s place as an enduring piece of Americana.

But it wasn’t until the early 2000s that “Drunken Sailor” truly exploded in popularity. That’s when Ubisoft Montreal released their groundbreaking video game Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag. The game is set during the Golden Age of Piracy in the Caribbean and features several sea shanties that players can have their crew sing while sailing from island to island. It was here that gamers were introduced to renditions of “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor?” performed by professional singers like Shawn Derritt and Wade Matthews. These hauntingly beautiful versions helped bring the song into gamer culture, where it remains popular today.

The late 2000s saw another resurgence in interest for shanties thanks to YouTube sensation Captain Dan & The Scurvy Crew. Their infectious blend of pirate-themed rap music included tracks like “Flintlock Glock” and “Broadside”, but their biggest hit was a remix of “Drunken Sailor”. The song, which samples the original tune but reimagines the lyrics as a boastful anthem for pirates, continues to be a fan favorite and has been viewed over 5 million times on YouTube.

But perhaps the most unexpected modern adaptation of “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor?” comes from popular children’s show Octonauts. In an episode titled “The Deadly Partying”, the characters encounter a drunken crab who is causing chaos on board their submersible vessel. To calm him down, they sing a cheerful rendition of the classic shanty – complete with an animated crab kickline! It’s safe to say that this iteration was likely enjoyed more by the young viewers than any other.

In conclusion, what once was just an old-timey sea shanty has proven its timelessness through its many modern adaptations. Whether it be in gaming or filmmaking or even in educating children about animal conservation, “What Do We Do with a Drunken Sailor?” remains one of our most enduring cultural touchstones.