The book of friendly giants

Chapter 7: II The Giants’ Ship

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About This Book

A collection of whimsical tales draws on European folklore to portray giants as gentle, helpful, and often comic figures. Episodes vary from a herdboy aiding an injured giant to voyages, trickster encounters with gods, saintly transformations, and playful retellings of legendary episodes like Gargantua. Stories alternate between adventure, moral lesson, and clever reversals that show giants rescuing or befriending humans rather than threatening them. Interlaced with humorous introductions and evocative illustrations, the pieces emphasize largeness of heart, folk wisdom, and the congenial side of mythic beings.

II
The Giants’ Ship

To The Giant Children

Giant children of the Norseland,

In a glad, tumultuous rally,

Skimming ice-peaked mountain-course land,

Crushing forests in the valley,—

We who play in farm and town land,

Crowded streets and city spaces,

Envy you the Up-and-Down Land,

While you seek the level places.

Seymour Barnard.