This is a beautiful illustrated collection of verse and prose. It is a lavishly-illustrated and embellished collection, which contains songs of the sea, poems and myths of enchanting mermaids, who captivate sailors, artists and writers alike with their mystery and allure. It contains work from some of literature's greatest writers, including William Shakespeare, John Keats, Oscar Wilde and Alfred, and Lord Tennyson. It is beautifully designed and illustrated, this delightful book will appeal to all romantics who believe in the power of legend and the mysteries that lie deep within the sea. From maritime songs, childhood tales and ancient legends come stories of enchanting mermaids and their mercurial, elusive beauty. For centuries these enticing sea nymphs have been held in awe by ocean-going people who fear being caught in the mermaid's spell. Even the mighty Odysseus could only journey safely past the singing sirens if he was restrained by being strapped to the mast of his ship. No wonder that painters and writers have been inspired to capture their essence. This book brings together some of the greatest works of art to create a treasury of tales and illustrations in celebration of these seductive sea creatures. Beautifully designed, the book is a delight to give or to keep, and will be enjoyed by anyone who feels the powerful attraction of the mysteries of the oceans.