The poem tattooed on Jack Sparrow's body.
- "'Tis common knowledge he's got the mark of the sparrow on his wrist. The symbol testifies that he sailed in all the oceans of the world many times over. But, he's got another mark, an ancient poem, the Desiderata, it's called. It's tattooed on his arms, chest, and back."
- ―Unknown about Jack Sparrow
The "Desiderata" was an ancient poem.[1] It is unknown who wrote the poem and when, other than it was written by the Age of Piracy. According to legends, the "Desiderata" was notably tattooed on Jack Sparrow's arms, chest, and back. Though rarely seen, the tattoo was visible on at least one of his hallucinations in Davy Jones' Locker.[2]
Text[]
Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
Behind the scenes[]
According to the "Inside the Brethren Court" bonus feature in the DVD/Blu-ray release for the 2007 film Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, the "Desiderata" was tattooed on Jack Sparrow's arms, chest, and back.[1] However, in the film itself, the tattoo was more visible on Jack's arms and back through his hallucinations.[2]
Desiderata, meaning "things that are desired," was written by the American writer Max Ehrmann and published in 1927. The poem's appearance in At World's End is anachronistic. It was used in the film with permission of Bell & Son Publishing, LLC.[3][4]
Though not mentioned in the At World's End "Inside the Brethren Court" feature,[1] the tattoos on Jack's arms feature lines from William Saroyan's 1939 play The Time of Your Life.[5]
Appearances[]
- The Island of Fortune
- Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (First appearance)
Sources[]
- Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End: "Inside the Brethren Court" (First identified as Desiderata)
