A Song in Storm by Rudyard Kipling
The poem explores themes of resilience, duty, and the relationship between man and nature. It depicts a crew navigating a storm at sea, emphasizing their struggle against overwhelming forces. The sailors acknowledge their vulnerability to the elements, yet they remain steadfast in their commitment to their ship and mission. The repeated phrase "welcome Fate's discourtesy" suggests an acceptance of fate's challenges, highlighting the idea that external circumstances often dictate outcomes. The crew's determination to persevere, despite the chaos around them, illustrates a deep sense of camaraderie and responsibility. The imagery of the sea as a living entity conveys the unpredictability of nature, while the ship symbolizes the collective effort of the crew. The poem ultimately asserts that the journey and the shared experience of facing adversity are more significant than individual roles, reinforcing the notion that unity and purpose prevail in times of crisis. Through vivid descriptions of the storm and the crew's resolve, the work encapsulates the struggle between human agency and the indifferent forces of nature, celebrating the spirit of endurance and the importance of collective strength in overcoming challenges.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, Maritime Literature, Adventure · 450 words
First lines
Be well assured that on our side The abiding oceans fight, Though headlong wind and heaping tide Make us their sport to-night. By force of weather not of war In jeopardy we steer, Then welcome Fate's discourtesy Whereby it shall appear, How in all time of our distress, And our deliverance too, The game is more than the player of the game, And the ship is more than the crew.
Out of the mist into the mirk The glimmering combers roll. Almost these mindless waters work As though they had a soul -- Almost as though they leagued to whelm Our flag beneath their green Then welcome Fate's discourtesy Whereby it shall be seen, etc.
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A Song in Storm is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1913 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1913 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Maritime Literature, Adventure, Philosophical, Inspirational
- Length: 450 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Similar titles
- A Departure by Rudyard Kipling
- Man Sails The Deep Awhile by Robert Louis Stevenson
- The Song Of The Dead by Rudyard Kipling
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- The Stranded Ship by Henry Lawson
- The Golden Vanity by Sabine Baring Gould
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Maritime Literature — The themes revolve around the sea, navigation, and the experiences of sailors.
- Adventure — The narrative conveys a sense of adventure and the challenges faced at sea.
- Philosophical — The text explores deeper themes of fate, duty, and the nature of existence.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · poetry · sea · storm · courage · fate · adventure · maritime · resilience · crew · ship · nature