Storm at Sea

The ship set sail with the setting sun

A twelve hour stretch its course to run

The forecast fair, a chance of rain

But naught to make the men abstain

Two hours out and sea like glass

Yet squalls were spotted 'yond the mast

The ship began to course and reel

A filthy-tempered storm revealed

The west wind whistled bow to stern

The forestay strained; the bilge drain churned

With bosun grim and men distraught

Their course was lost and safety sought

As banshees screamed and sirens wailed

The sails were dropped and rigging flailed

For four hours straight she pitched and tossed

Whilst pleas were made and hearts were crossed

Stomachs churned and nerves were shredded

Prayers were muttered, muddle-headed

Pleas to God for calmer waters

And safe return to wives and daughters

At last exhausted, torn and tattered

A weary crew with vessel battered

Dragged themselves back into port

To tell their tale to a gladdened court

The storm fell back to gain her strength

Her power felt but still unspent

She'll let them tell their heroes’ tales

The time will come for widows' veils