The sea has always been a source of creative inspiration across many art forms. On National Poetry Day, I want to share one of my favourite poems, Sea Fever by John Masefield, accompanied by a lovely artwork from Anne Bowes, illustrator and jewellery designer. I think the poem has a soothing rhythm, like the lapping of water against a tethered boat; read it aloud and see what you think.
Sea Fever BY JOHN MASEFIELD
I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by;
And the wheel’s kick and the wind’s song and the white sail’s shaking,
And a grey mist on the sea’s face, and a grey dawn breaking.
I must down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;
And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.
I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life,
To the gull’s way and the whale’s way where the wind’s like a whetted knife;
And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,
And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick’s over.
Happy Poetry Day! Lucia
