"For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." (Romans 8:18). In the elegiac poem, "The Seafarer", this statement is boldly illustrated in the narration of a man's physical and spiritual journey to find enlightenment and glory with God, told in two distinct voices. The unknown poet of "The Seafarer" uses dramatic shifts in imagery in order to exemplify the contrast between the fearful and hopeful voices that are used in the poem.

Throughout the entire poem, the first voice speaks with a tone that is filled with sadness, fear, and hopelessness, especially when speaking of the sea and its great power. The poet demonstrates the connection between the overpowering nature of God and the power of the sea with gripping imagery that is particularly evident when he says, "My feet...