Since the events of last Saturday I’ve been trying to find the Heinlein short story (an early one I think) where he quoted the hymn “For those in peril on the Sea” with an additional verse he had composed for those who venture into space. Can anyone help?
Ordeal in Space.
You’re welcome. I’ll send along a bill.
I think it’s “Ordeal in Space”
Eternal Father, Strong To Save,
Whose Arm Hath Bound The Restless Wave.
Who Bidd’st The Mighty Ocean Deep
It’s Own Appointed Limits Keep.
O Hear Us When We Cry To Thee
For Those In Peril On The Sea!
Lord Guard And Guide The Men Who Fly
Through The Great Spaces In The Sky.
Be With Them Always In The Air,
In Darkening Storms Or Sunlight Fair.
Oh, Hear Us When We Lift Our Prayer
For Those In Peril In The Air!
blast.
S’okay Ethilrist, just one of my favorite Heinlein stories. I didn’t even have to think about it.
Thanks, everyone.
It’s referred to as “the Navy Hymn” – Heinlein, as a lifelong Naval reservist and a graduate of USNA, had a special place in his heart for it.
Although people have quoted much of the text, permit me to insert this link to the full text and music; the tune, Melita, is haunting (and was also used for Kipling’s Recessional).
And just for fun, from “Tango Charlie and Foxtrot Romeo” (Varley):
Lord guard and guide all those who fly
Throught Thy great void above the sky.
Be with the all on ev’ry flight,
In radiant day or darkest night.
Oh, hear our prayer, extend Thy grace
To those in peril deep in space.
Sung by Charlie for the dead puppy as she sends him out the airlock.