The text of this poem could not be published because of Copyright laws.
This has a serious misquote. All stanzas begin, 'I must down to the seas again.' There's no 'go.'
Listen to Masefield reciting it himself. He altered the text to include the word 'go.' As long as the three stanzas read the same, it makes no odds. Don't get hung up on it.
It reminds me of my boyhood and I can smell the sea and hear the gulls when I read it
This is my favourite EVER poem! ! :) It was my great-grandfather's favourite too. He taught it to my gran and her siblings when she was a kid, and when he died they had the line 'and a quiet sleep and a sweet dream' engraved on his headstone.
A must poem for everyone! and if you don't love Poetry, after this it must be because you are not really totally alive.
It beautifully captures the allure of the sea and the universal yearning for adventure and exploration
a sailor's adventurous lifestyle and their deep connection to the sea. The poem's lyrical composition, repeated refrain, and poetic devices make it perfect for both reading aloud and solitary reflection.
'When World War I began, though old enough to be exempted from military service, Masefield joined the staff of a British hospital for French soldiers' from PH Bio
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
A must read for all sailors. This poem defines how we feel so perfectly. If you ARE a sailor please read Ode to Diana.