Poem Analysis - Farewell And Adieu

A Sailor's Farewell and a Dash of Dark Humor

Rudyard Kipling's "Farewell and Adieu..." presents a surprisingly lighthearted take on the perilous life of sailors, particularly submariners. The poem begins with a jovial farewell to women, then recounts dangerous encounters with a blend of nonchalance and dark humor. The tone, initially celebratory, shifts to one of understated peril and resilience, ultimately returning to the initial carefree spirit. Despite the dangers described, the poem maintains an air of optimism and camaraderie, highlighting the spirit of the sailors.

Contextualizing the Submarine's Perilous World

While the poem text provides no direct historical context, the reference to "Zeppelin" and "six-pounders" strongly suggests that the poem is set during World War I. This was a time when submarines were a relatively new and dangerous technology. The poem implicitly acknowledges this danger by depicting encounters with mines and enemy airships, painting a picture of the risky environment these sailors operated in. Kipling, known for his works celebrating British imperialism and military virtues, often focused on the experiences of ordinary soldiers and sailors, lending his work a sense of authenticity and understanding of their lives.

Courage, Camaraderie, and the Face of Death

One of the main themes is the courage of the sailors in the face of danger. Despite the very real risks of encountering mines or being attacked by a Zeppelin, they approach their task with a sense of duty and a hint of bravado. Another theme is the camaraderie among the crew. This is subtly conveyed through the shared experience of danger and the unified voice of the poem ("we"). The poem hints at the sailors' reliance on each other in the harsh environment of a submarine at war. Furthermore, the poem grapples with the theme of mortality. This theme is not directly stated but emerges in the description of dangerous situations. The light tone and nonchalant acceptance of peril serve to mask the constant threat of death, offering a glimpse into the psychological coping mechanisms of soldiers at war.

"Tin Turtles" and a Shiny Belly: Imagery of War

The poem uses vivid imagery to depict the submarine and its encounters. The sailors describe their vessel as "little tin turtles," creating a playful image that belies the submarine's deadly purpose. This image highlights the submarine's small size and its ability to "duck and dive" beneath the waves. In contrast, the Zeppelin is described as having a "shiny big belly," emphasizing its size and imposing presence in the sky. The phrase "tri-nitro-toluol hogging our run" is a potent image, representing the mine's lethal power and the threat it poses to the submarine. The image of a shiny belly blocking the sky invokes the helplessness that the sailors felt because they could not effectively engage the Zeppelin with the armaments that they possessed.

A Testament to the Unsung Heroes

In conclusion, "Farewell and Adieu..." is a testament to the bravery and resilience of sailors during wartime. The poem's light tone and understated humor belie the very real dangers they faced, highlighting their courage and camaraderie. Through vivid imagery and a playful style, Kipling celebrates the unsung heroes who navigated the treacherous waters of war, offering a glimpse into their lives and the psychological toll of constant peril. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the human spirit in the face of adversity, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who served in dangerous circumstances.