The Ballad of Sir Patrick Spens

"The Ballad of Sir Patrick Spens" is a traditional Scottish poem that recounts a tragic maritime voyage. It tells how Sir Patrick Spens, a noble and skilled sailor, is summoned to lead a fleet of ships despite dangerous weather. Ironically, the voyage ends in disaster when the ships sink, and many sailors, including Sir Patrick, perish. The poem explores themes of duty, honor, and the unpredictable power of nature. Its somber tone emphasizes the tragic consequences of human hubris and the uncontrollable forces of the sea.