“Here's to the Grog (All Gone for Grog)”

Description

The singer describes his "nobby, nobby" coat, breeches, etc. All are decrepit, but will not be replaced, for "It's all gone for grog, Jolly, jolly grog... I've spent all my tin with the lassies drinking gin, And across the western ocean I must wander."

Notes

Although some versions of this song make no reference at all to the sea, the singer's references to grog (which is technically rum mixed with water) label him as a sailor; only a seaman would speak of grog as opposed to some other sort of alcoholic beverage.

Creighton thinks the song might have originated as a music hall piece. - RBW

Recordings

• Liam Clancy, "All For Me Grog" (on IRLClancy01)
• Tom Newman, "My Old Hat That I Got On" (on Voice13)

References

1. Kennedy 274, "Here's to the Grog" (1 text, 1 tune)
2. Creighton-NovaScotia 64, "Western Ocean" (1 text, 1 tune)
3. Paterson/Fahey/Seal, pp. 238-240, "Across the Western Ocean I Must Wander" (1 text)
4. DT, HEREGROG*
5. Roud #475
6. BI, K274