Note: I am sharing this again. It is one of the most commented upon posts on my blog!
This song has generated some controversy. See the comments. Feel free to comment yourself, but remember that a Scout is courteous.
About the My Turtle Swims Sideways Song
The Scout song “My Turtle Swims Sideways” is a playful and engaging tune that often rings around campfires and gatherings. Set to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance,” it’s easy to sing along and brings a light-hearted touch to the gathering.
With simple lyrics and gestures, the song tells the whimsical story of two turtles, one swimming sideways, the other upside down. Participants mimic the swimming motions to bring the story to life. These physical cues add an interactive element that is enjoyable for both participants and spectators.
This song is not only fun to sing but also serves as an icebreaker, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Whether at a scout meeting or family campout, it’s sure to bring smiles and laughter to those gathered around.
Why Some Don’t Like the Song
The Scout song “My Turtle Swims Sideways” has drawn criticism from some members of the community due to its surprising and somewhat morbid ending. Commenters have expressed concern over the inclusion of themes such as death, arguing that they are inappropriate for the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). The view is that these themes are not aligned with the positive values that should be promoted within the BSA, and that they might contribute to a negative culture within the organization. Concerns also extend to other negative aspects such as bathroom humor or making fun of others.
Another point of contention is related to the changing cultural norms and sensibilities. An Aquatics Director, mentions the shift from referring to the “dead man float” to the “jellyfish float,” indicating a broader societal movement away from using potentially offensive terms. There is a belief that just because something has been done for years doesn’t mean it’s acceptable now. Commenters also expressed frustration with the inconsistency in the rules governing what is deemed appropriate, reflecting a broader debate over where to draw the line between tradition and sensitivity.
The Reaction to the Controversy
In response to the criticism surrounding the song “My Turtle Swims Sideways,” a lot of commenters have expressed support for the tune. The supporters of the song argue that children are smarter and more discerning than they are often given credit for, and they can differentiate between humor and reality.
Another common theme among the supporters is a call for a more relaxed attitude towards such songs. One points out that darker themes are prevalent in many popular children’s stories, including Disney movies and lullabies like “Rock-a-bye Baby.” And they emphasize the joy and camaraderie that such songs bring to scouting, suggesting that those opposed might be missing the point of these activities.
Furthermore, some commenters advise using personal judgment to decide what’s appropriate for individual scout groups. They emphasize knowing the temperament and sense of humor of the children involved and making an informed decision based on that knowledge. Others decry the influence of political correctness, expressing nostalgia for a time when songs like this could be enjoyed without controversy.
Finally, there’s a sentiment that the song is simply a fun and silly tradition, loved by many for its simplicity and ability to bring laughter to group activities. The song can lighten the mood during difficult hikes, illustrating the positive impact such songs can have on group morale.
In summary, the supporters of “My Turtle Swims Sideways” view it as a harmless, fun tradition and an outlet for emotions. They argue that children are capable of understanding the difference between a joke and reality and call for a more balanced and nuanced approach to evaluating such content within the scouting community.
I appreciate all of the additional verses which were added to the comments, so I am including them here so you can decide which to use.
My Turtle Swims Sideways Song
(Sing to the tune of Pomp and Circumstance)
My turtle swims sideways. (Make a swimming motion to one side)
Your turtle swims upside down. (Tilt your head back and make a swimming motion upwards)
My turtle swims sideways. (Make a swimming motion to the side again)
Your turtle is DEAD! (Tilt your head back and flop your hands back.)
Additional Verses from Comments
My turtle swims sideways
Your turtle swims round and round (turn in a circle)
My turtle swims sideways
Your turtle is SOUP.
My turtle eats cornmeal.
Your turtle eats mush.
My turtle eats cornmeal.
Your turtle’s still dead!
My fishie swims upstream,
Your fishie floats down,
My fishie swims upstream,
Your fishie DROWNED!
My turtle speaks es-span-yol.
Your turtle does not.
My turtle speaks es-span-yol.
Your turtle is French.
Harmony of Scouting: The Power of Songs
Songs like “My Turtle Swims Sideways” are often used in Scouting programs to foster a sense of camaraderie and fun. They can provide a light-hearted break from more serious activities and help build a sense of community within the group. The humor and simplicity of such songs appeal to the Scouts, creating memorable moments that often become beloved traditions. While they might sometimes spark controversy due to their content, proponents argue that they are part of a larger culture of humor and bonding that contributes positively to the overall Scouting experience.
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