The sailor describes the horrors of a big storm and the valiant courage required to face the dangers of the ocean.
The people of England benefit from the courage and constancy of the sailor, he explains, through the spices, wines, and other goods he brings back from distant lands as well as the security afforded by a naval presence.
[3] Gunda Windmüller argues that the ballad should be read in the context of early empire and the global economy.
[4] Gerald Hammond notes that the sailor's words indicate a class antagonism that resents the rich merchants who merely stay home and enjoy the exploits of those who risk their lives in sea-faring economic trade.
[7] The ballad was recorded by early music ensemble The City Waites on their album, Penny Merriments: Street Songs of 17th Century England (2005).