The Man O'War HMS Arcturus

The Man O'War HMS Arcturus dominated the billowin' main!
Foes were fearful of closin' battle with 'er should they ever deign!
What a magnificent and imposin' sight was she with 'er riggin' full o'sail,
As she raced to and fro with Union Jack a-snappin' leavin' havoc in 'er trail!

The Master, Captain Pettigrew, ran a taut ship but was beloved by his crew.
He had led them through battle and stormy gale - they were tried and true.
Captain Pettigrew held to tradition and was generous with the cup o'rum.
His crew would follow him anywhere, though at times spent and numb!

Durin' the din of battle when lethal shell flew and the cannon roared,
And though the deck was awash with blood upon its oaken board,
Midst the billowin' smoke they saw their gallant captain a-standin' tall,
A source of strength and courage, exhortin' victory from one and all!

Though many a battle and ragin' storm upon 'er had taken their toll,
And 'er wooden hull groaned and creaked with every sea-tossed roll,
She was the pride of the British Fleet and there was nary another like 'er!
Just ask any of the crew who served on 'er and they would concur!

She made 'er final cruise in 1837 leavin' port sailin' o'er the horizon,
In 'er usual majestic style, fully rigged displayin' flyin' jib and mizzen!
Alas, she disappeared and 'er plight was never really known for true.
Only He Who rules the seas knows the fate of HMS Arcturus and her crew.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

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Liguori Avatar
November 12, 2021 at 10:55 AM
The dialect you chose here helped take me back in time to the HMS Arcturus. Fine poem, congrats on your placement!
Alex Avatar
November 11, 2021 at 10:37 PM
Great work. Congratulations!
Eastman Avatar
June 11, 2016 at 10:41 AM
Lately the British commissioned a new ship and ask the public to name it... The name chosen by the people was "Boaty McBoat Face". They wouldn't let them have the name... but did allow the on board small submarine to have the name... REALLY! LOL... How times have changed. I bet that's the last time they let the public decide.
Makama Avatar
May 12, 2016 at 11:50 AM
Beautiful in the most unique way.. Loving this piece so much
Pettit Avatar
April 18, 2016 at 4:19 PM
Superb write which reminds me of Roger Whittaker's hit song "The Last Farewell".
Allison Avatar
April 13, 2016 at 9:41 AM
a wonderful nautical tale Bob:-) hugs Jan xx
Laurie Avatar
April 11, 2016 at 9:03 PM
G'day Bob ... your poem may be fictional but it tells the tale of many a ship and sailor lost at sea - Lindsay
Bauer Avatar
April 11, 2016 at 7:11 PM
a wonderful tale told as only you can do it, bob! i was surprised to read that it's fictional - you made me believe every word! great write...
Turner Avatar
April 11, 2016 at 5:58 PM
Really love the nautical tale Bob. Peace my friend:)
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