Big Steamers

by Rudyard Kipling — a poem card from Justes Mots

A whimsical dialogue-poem celebrating the Big Steamers that sustain Britain with trade goods from across the empire, combining practical economics with maritime adventure. The poem's playful tone and child-like wonder make it accessible and celebratory. It works well for readers seeking uplifting poems about interdependence, maritime heritage, and global connection.

"Oh, where are you going to, all you Big Steamers,
With England's own coal, up and down the salt seas?"
"We are going to fetch you your bread and your butter,
Your beef, pork, and mutton, eggs, apples, and cheese."

"And where will you fetch it from, all you Big Steamers,
And where shall I write you when you are away?
"We fetch it from Melbourne, Quebec, and Vancouver,…

Themes: birthday · friendship · encouragement · new-chapter