The Ballad of the "Clampherdown"
The narrative follows a warship engaged in battle, emphasizing its formidable armament and the challenges faced during combat. The ship, equipped with a powerful bow-gun and stern-gun, encounters a lighter cruiser that opens fire from a distance. As the battle progresses, the ship's guns begin to malfunction under the strain, prompting the captain to consider retreat. Despite the damage and the increasing danger from enemy fire, the crew remains resolute. The captain's orders reflect a determination to fight back, even as the ship suffers significant damage. The crew's bravery is highlighted as they prepare to board the enemy vessel, reminiscent of historical naval battles. The fight is fierce, with the crew engaging in hand-to-hand combat, showcasing their valor and commitment to their ship. Ultimately, the warship succumbs to its injuries, sinking into the sea, but not before the crew successfully captures the enemy cruiser. The poem concludes with a sense of pride in their victory, echoing the valor of past naval traditions and the enduring spirit of maritime warfare. The themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of naval combat are central to the work, illustrating the complexities of war at sea.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1890 · Genre: War Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Historical Fiction · 925 words
First lines
It was our war-ship _Clampherdown_ Would sweep the Channel clean, Wherefore she kept her hatches close When the merry Channel chops arose, To save the bleached marine.
She had one bow-gun of a hundred ton, And a great stern-gun beside; They dipped their noses deep in the sea, They racked their stays and stanchions free In the wash of the wind-whipped tide.
What this Textopian page supports
The Ballad of the "Clampherdown" is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1890 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: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: War Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Historical Fiction, Adventure, Ballad
- Length: 925 words
- Structure: 1 section, 18 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Ballad of the "Clampherdown" by Rudyard Kipling
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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- How does this poem by Rudyard Kipling fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does War Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- War Poetry — The poem depicts a naval battle, focusing on the experiences and emotions of the crew during combat.
- Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story with a clear plot involving conflict, action, and resolution.
- Historical Fiction — The poem references historical naval warfare and evokes themes of honor and bravery associated with past conflicts.
- Adventure — The poem captures the adventurous spirit of naval battles and the challenges faced by sailors.
Tags
warship · Clampherdown · naval battle · poetry · Rudyard Kipling · sea · Channel · cruiser · artillery · combat · heroism · sacrifice