When the Great Ark
The narrative unfolds in a maritime setting where a grand ship, the Great Ark, navigates through a fleet of vessels in Vigo Bay. The crew of the surrounding ships, facing a shortage of manpower, implores the Great Ark to send assistance. They express their readiness for the challenges of the sea but highlight their limited strength, which hampers their ability to operate effectively. The mariners articulate their concerns about the dangers of sailing with insufficient crew. They argue that in warfare, having too many sailors can lead to chaos and ineffective decision-making, while in storms, it is the skill of a few that prevails over the sheer number of hands. They emphasize that a crowded ship can lead to unrest and discontent among the crew, which can be detrimental to their mission. The plea underscores the importance of skilled sailors over sheer numbers, suggesting that the Great Ark's abundance of crew members is counterproductive. The surrounding ships lament the loss of potential opportunities and advantages due to their inability to venture into unchallenged waters, ultimately costing England both honor and profit. As the narrative progresses, the themes of leadership, resource management, and the balance between quantity and quality in maritime endeavors are explored. The mariners' call for assistance reflects a broader commentary on the nature of teamwork and the necessity of strategic decision-making in the face of adversity. The tension between the need for manpower and the effectiveness of skilled individuals becomes a central focus, illustrating the complexities of naval operations during this period. The work ultimately serves as a reflection on the maritime experience, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and the consequences of neglecting the human element in the pursuit of glory and success at sea.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1911 · Genre: Poetry, Adventure, Historical Fiction · 238 words
First lines
When the Great Ark, in Vigo Bay, Rode stately through the half-manned fleet, From every ship about her way She heard the mariners entreat -- 'Before we take the seas again, Let down your boats and send us men!
'We have no lack of victual here With work -- God knows! -- enough for all, To hand and reef and watch and steer, Because our present strength is small. While your three decks are crowded so Your crews can scarcely stand or go.
'In war, your numbers do but raise Confusion and divided will; In storm, the mindless deep obeys Not multitudes but single skill; In calm, your numbers, closely pressed. Do breed a mutiny or pest.
What this Textopian page supports
When the Great Ark is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1911 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: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Adventure, Historical Fiction, Drama, Literary Fiction
- Length: 238 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for When the Great Ark by Rudyard Kipling
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Adventure — The themes of maritime exploration and the challenges faced at sea suggest an adventurous narrative.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and context imply a historical backdrop related to naval operations.
- Drama — The tension and conflict among the mariners reflect dramatic elements.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · poetry · maritime · adventure · naval · leadership · courage · sacrifice · teamwork · conflict · sea · fleet