'The Ballad of the Oysterman' Summary

The Ballad of the Oysterman is a humorous and tragic poem about a young oysterman who falls in love with the daughter of a fisherman. The oysterman, who is described as "tall and slim," lives on one side of the river, and the young woman lives on the other side. One night, the oysterman decides to swim across the river to meet her. He is successful in reaching the other side, but he is caught in a cramp and drowns. The young woman is heartbroken, and she falls into a swoon.

The poem ends with the two lovers being transformed into oysters and living together in the bottom of the sea. The transformation of the lovers into oysters is a symbol of their love for each other. They are now united in death, and they will never be apart again.

The Ballad of the Oysterman is a classic example of Oliver Wendell Holmes's wit and wordplay. The poem is full of puns and allusions, and it is sure to make you laugh. However, the poem is also surprisingly moving, and it explores the themes of love, loss, and redemption.