The phrase "full fathom five" refers to a literary and often metaphorical expression that originates from William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest." In the play, the character Ariel sings a playful and eerie song that includes the line, "Full fathom five thy father lies." To fully understand its meaning, it is essential to break down the phrase.
The term "full fathom" refers to a unit of measurement used to calculate the depth of water. A fathom is equal to six feet or 1.8 meters. "Five" simply indicates the specific depth in question. Therefore, "full fathom five" signifies a depth of water that measures five fathoms, or thirty feet deep.
However, beyond its literal definition, "full fathom five" carries significant symbolic connotations. In the context of Shakespeare's play, it describes the location of someone's deceased father, lying beneath the water's surface. Consequently, the phrase often symbolizes the passing of a loved one or the idea of something being lost, forgotten, or concealed.
Outside of "The Tempest," "full fathom five" has become a popular idiom and literary allusion, frequently used to evoke an atmosphere of mystery, secrecy, or melancholy. It is often employed in poetry, novels, and songs to convey themes such as death, rebirth, hidden truths, or the depths of the human psyche.
