Dilemma Of A Seaman Ashore

I have the boat, yes
And the tide, and sail;
Yet I am afraid to set
Lest my fate should fail.

And then these numerous tales
Of storm and perish, kaput;
From seamen, old and worn,
Advice me to stay put.

My mind firm on shore,
But heart leaps for sea;
For the curtain’d fancy
And Pollyanna’s ecstasy.

Amidst such fracas I stand
To decide ’pon inviting waters;
Whether I should risk plunge
Or avoid unfortunate totters!?

For despite the charming tide,
There will be no guarantee;
That it may turn hostile
And wash me down in sea.

I do not fear destruction,
I have a sailor’s heart;
But I ponder my dear,
What difference’ll it impart!

Is it just to be ignominy, or
There be any glory in death;
Will I sink a forgotten failure
Or be remembered till last breath?

Which shall be my destiny,
I can not say for sure;
This is the unforgiving dilemma,
Of a seaman standing ashore.