I'll Build myself a Gallant Ship. (Solo or Quart

Name: I'll Build myself a Gallant Ship. (Solo or Quartette)
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould

The work presents a narrative of longing and adventure, encapsulated in the metaphor of building a ship. The speaker expresses a desire to construct a vessel that symbolizes freedom and noble aspirations, manned by a crew of twenty-four mariners. This ship serves as a means to escape from despair and the confines of home. The speaker's determination is evident as they resolve to take command, emphasizing a sense of agency despite the emotional turmoil they experience. The imagery of the sea, with its tumultuous waters and the relentless North wind, reflects the internal struggle and yearning for connection. The speaker's disregard for personal appearance and societal expectations underscores their focus on the journey rather than superficial concerns. As the narrative unfolds, the speaker's thoughts drift to a distant love, highlighting themes of separation and longing. The moonlight and the Eastern star serve as symbols of hope and guidance, illuminating the path toward reunion. The emotional weight of the speaker's journey is palpable, as they grapple with feelings of despair and the desire for love amidst the vastness of the sea. Overall, the work captures the essence of a quest for freedom, love, and self-discovery, framed within the metaphor of a maritime adventure. The interplay between the external journey and the internal emotional landscape creates a poignant exploration of human desire and the search for connection.

By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Adventure · 247 words

First lines

F. W. B. [Music]

1. I'll build myself a gallant ship, A ship of noble fame; And four and twenty mariners, Shall box and man the same; And I will stand, with helm in hand, To urge them o'er the main.

2. No scarf shall o'er my shoulders go, I will not comb my hair; The pale moonlight, the candle bright Shall neither tell I'm fair. Beside the mast I stand so fast, Unresting in despair.

3. The rain may beat, and round my feet The waters wash and foam, O thou North wind lag not behind But bear me far from home! My hands I wring, and sobbing sing, As over seas I roam.

What this Textopian page supports

I'll Build myself a Gallant Ship. (Solo or Quartette) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Sabine Baring-Gould, 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: Sabine Baring-Gould
Date: 1890 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Adventure, Ballad, Nautical Fiction
Length: 247 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of longing and adventure.
Romanticism — The themes of love, nature, and emotional expression align with Romantic ideals.
Adventure — The narrative involves a journey at sea, embodying the spirit of exploration and adventure.
Ballad — The lyrical quality and storytelling aspect are characteristic of ballads.