I cannot remember whither I was bound—

I cannot remember why I was found

Moving without a sound

Moving in mystery—

Derelict, derelict,

Over the sea!

I too carry a cargo in my hold,

Underneath sea-water and green with mold—

I cannot remember how old!

For terrible it is to be

Derelict, derelict,

Over the sea!

Feebler ships weather bravely into port;

Running a course that is safe and short—

My voyage is another sort;

No master guideth me—

Derelict, derelict,

Over the sea!

Nights have shadow’d me with phantom stride—

Stars have peer’d at me, eerie-eyed—

Goblin lights and magic tide

Keep me company,

Derelict, derelict,

Over the sea!

Rudderless, by ways uncharted blown—

Some day shall waken to find me gone—

What matter? I have drifted alone

Ever—alone—yet free—

Derelict, derelict,

Over the sea!