Thomas Haynes Bayly, The Pilot Quotes

A collection of quotes by Thomas Haynes Bayly, The Pilot.

Thomas Haynes Bayly was an English songwriter and poet born in Bath in 1797. He is best known for his sentimental and lyrical works, often reflecting on themes of love, nature, and nostalgia. Despite a relatively short and troubled life, Bayly's contributions to sentimental poetry and songwriting have left a lasting impact.

Known by the nickname "The Pilot," Bayly's talent flourished during his early years. His first collection of poetry, "Poems, Ballads, and Songs," was published in 1836 and received favorable reviews. One of his most famous compositions, "The Mistletoe Bough," gained immense popularity and solidified his reputation as a skilled songwriter. This melancholic ballad tells the haunting tale of a bride who embarks on a game of hide-and-seek during her wedding reception, only to disappear inside a trunk and be discovered many years later as a skeleton.

Despite his notable success as a poet and songwriter, Bayly faced severe financial struggles throughout his life. His limited finances often led to hasty and uninspiring works to support himself and his family. Despite these challenges, Bayly continued to create poetry and songs until his premature death at the age of 43 in 1839.

Thomas Haynes Bayly's contributions to sentimental poetry and songwriting, particularly his ability to evoke deep emotions through his works, have solidified his place in English literature. He remains an important figure in the Romantic era and has left behind a significant body of work that continues to be celebrated today.

Oh! Pilot! 'tis a fearful night,There's danger on the deep,I

Oh! Pilot! 'tis a fearful night,There's danger on the deep,I'll come and pace the deck with thee,I do not dare to sleep.Go down, the sailor cried, go down,This is no place for thee;Fear not! but trust in Providence,Wherever thou mayst be.Ah! Pilot, dangers often metWe all are apt to slight,And thou hast known these raging wavesBut to subdue their might.It is not apathy, he cried,That gives this strength to me,Fear not but trust in Providence,Wherever thou mayst be.On such a night the sea engulphedMy father's lifeless form;My only brother's boat went downIn just so wild a storm;And such, perhaps, may be my fate,But still I say to thee,Fear not but trust in Providence,Wherever thou mayst be.

Thomas Haynes Bayly, The Pilot

Sailing