Down Among the Dead Men (song)

"Down Among the Dead Men" is an English drinking song first published in 1728, but possibly of greater antiquity.

[citation needed] The song begins with a toast to "the King" and continues with obeisances to the god Bacchus which become increasingly less subtle descriptions of the benefits of alcohol in procuring opportunities for sexual intercourse.

[1] According to Charles Mackay, it was first performed at the theatre at Lincoln's Inn Fields.

[2] Another source gives credit for the melody to Henry Purcell, noting that it was first published in 1728 in The Dancing Master, a multi-volume book of songs from Pearson & Young, but is likely of older origin.

[4] Here's a health to the King and a lasting peace To faction an end, to wealth increase.

Peter Dawson sings "Down Among the Dead Men" in a 1909 recording.
Sample of Stanford's Concert Variations upon an English Theme is an 1898 arrangement of "Down Among the Dead Men".
The third and fourth stanzas of "Down Among the Dead Men" reference Bacchus , the Roman god of wine, fertility, and ritual madness.