What does the phrase when the long trick's over mean?

Answer 1

In the last line of John Masefield's poem "Sea Fever" the term "long trick" refers to a "trick" or duty watch at sea, where a sea voyage is an analogy for a man's life, after which he dies (a quiet sleep).

Answer 2

A "trick" in this sense is a spell on the wheel, steering the ship. The seamen of the watch on the merchant vessel of this period would divide their time between steering and being a look out. The period as helmsman, steering the vessel, is called a "trick", normally an hour, then a hour as lookout, etc.

Answer 3

The phrase "when the long trick's over" typically refers to a situation or period of time that has been challenging, difficult, or arduous coming to an end. It implies that a prolonged or complex task or ordeal is finally completed or resolved. The phrase conveys a sense of relief or closure after enduring a demanding or strenuous situation.

Answer 4

The phrase "when the long trick's over" typically refers to the end of a complicated or deceptive situation or plan. It signifies the conclusion of a challenging or elaborate scheme.