To Cruel Ocean

To Cruel Ocean by Victor Hugo

 Where are the hapless shipmen?—disappeared, 
 Gone down, where witness none, save Night, hath been, 
 Ye deep, deep waves, of kneeling mothers feared, 
 What dismal tales know ye of things unseen? 
 Tales that ye tell your whispering selves between 
 The while in clouds to the flood-tide ye pour; 
 And this it is that gives you, as I ween, 
 Those mournful voices, mournful evermore, 
 When ye come in at eve to us who dwell on shore. 


 





Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace