FAQ About Role of Maritime Music in Cultural Identity
Why were some sea shanties forbidden aboard certain ships?
Some sea shanties were forbidden aboard certain ships due to their potentially lewd or bawdy nature. Captains worried such content might undermine discipline, or incite run-ins with superstitions by referencing bad luck or mutinous themes. This censorship reflected attempts to maintain order and professionalism on board, showing the delicate balance between sailors' entertainment needs and ship governance.
