The year is 1863 and the whaling ship James Arnold is heading out on a whaling voyage that may last more than three years. On this morning, the ship has just rounded Gay Head Light on Martha's Vineyard and is headed out to sea with the last glimpse of home behind her. The first mate has gathered the new and younger members of the crew around him to remind them to take one last look back, and to offer some friendly advice.

Ballad of Gay Head Light

Look lively lads an hear ye this
Ye all be Bedford men.
An so yer whalers born an bred
But ye best remember when.

That on this day whilst headin out
Ye last saw Gay Head Light.
Best burn that picture in yer brain
Cuz they'll be many a night

When whalein is prime an Capn calls
All watches without stop.
Yer cold an wet with bruisin pain
An so tired yer bout ta drop.

An when ye think yer sure ta break
The thing that'll keep ye sane.
Is that one day - New Bedford bound
Ye'll see Gay Head again.

Lou Trapasso

(#OM-2) Heading Out - oil on linen 22x28. Giclée canvas paintings and fine art prints are available. See Gallery Store for purchase details.

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