James T. Fields (1817-1881) was an American author, publisher and poet. Many of his words including this poem, can be found in his book, Ballads and Verses, which was published in 1880.
This poem tells us about a brave, young girl who is caught in a storm on a ship at sea. While the adults have given up hope and fear for their lives, the little girl remains courageous and hopeful and inspires the men to have faith in times of trouble.
We were crowded in the cabin,
Not a soul would dare to sleep,
It was midnight on the waters,
And a storm was on the deep.
'Tis a fearful thing in winter
To be shattered by the blast,
And to hear the rattling trumpet Thunder,
"Cut away the mast!"
So we shuddered there in silence,
For the stoutest held his breath,
While the hungry sea was roaring
And the breakers talked with Death.
As thus we sat in darkness,
Each one busy with his prayers,
"We are lost!" the captain shouted
As he staggered down the stairs.
But his little daughter whispered,
As she took his icy hand,
"Isn't God upon the ocean,
Just the same as on the land?"
Then we kissed the little maiden.
And we spoke in better cheer,
And we anchored safe in harbour
When the morn was shining clear.
Why didn't anyone dare to sleep on the ship?
What damage was caused to the ship? Who or what caused this damage? Write down the words and phrases that tell you this.
Why is the sea described as 'hungry'?
How do you think the Captain felt as he came down the stairs?
What effect did the Captain's daughter's words have on the men?
What did the girl mean by these lines?
Isn't God upon the ocean,
Just the same as on land?