Sailor Talk

Sailor Talk
Author: Mary K. Bercaw Edwards
Publisher: Studies in Port and Maritime H
Total Pages: 296
Release: 2021-03
Genre: History
ISBN: 1800859651

This book investigates the highly engaging topic of the literary and cultural significance of 'sailor talk.' The central argument is that sailor talk offers a way of rethinking the figure of the nineteenth-century sailor and sailor-writer, whose language articulated the rich, layered, and complex culture of sailors in port and at sea. From this argument many other compelling threads emerge, including questions relating to the seafarer's multifaceted identity, maritime labor, questions of performativity, the ship as 'theater, ' the varied and multiple registers of 'sailor talk, ' and the foundational role of maritime language in the lives and works of Herman Melville, Joseph Conrad, and Jack London. The book also includes nods to James Fenimore Cooper, Rudyard Kipling, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Meticulous scholarly research underpins the close readings of literary texts and the scrupulously detailed biographical accounts of three major sailor-writers. The author's own lived experience as a seafarer adds a refreshingly materialist dimension to the subtle literary readings. The book represents a valuable addition to a growing scholarly and political interest in the sea and sea literature. By taking the sailor's viewpoint and listening to sailors' voices, the book also marks a clear intervention in this developing field.

Sailor Talk

Sailor Talk
Author: Mary K. Bercaw Edwards
Publisher: Liverpool University Press
Total Pages: 296
Release: 2021-03-01
Genre: History
ISBN: 180085868X

This book investigates the highly engaging topic of the literary and cultural significance of ‘sailor talk.’ The central argument is that sailor talk offers a way of rethinking the figure of the nineteenth-century sailor and sailor-writer, whose language articulated the rich, layered, and complex culture of sailors in port and at sea. From this argument many other compelling threads emerge, including questions relating to the seafarer’s multifaceted identity, maritime labor, questions of performativity, the ship as ‘theater,’ the varied and multiple registers of ‘sailor talk,’ and the foundational role of maritime language in the lives and works of Herman Melville, Joseph Conrad, and Jack London. The book also includes nods to James Fenimore Cooper, Rudyard Kipling, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Meticulous scholarly research underpins the close readings of literary texts and the scrupulously detailed biographical accounts of three major sailor-writers. The author’s own lived experience as a seafarer adds a refreshingly materialist dimension to the subtle literary readings. The book represents a valuable addition to a growing scholarly and political interest in the sea and sea literature. By taking the sailor’s viewpoint and listening to sailors’ voices, the book also marks a clear intervention in this developing field.

A Sailor's Tale

A Sailor's Tale
Author: E.G. ‘Lusko
Publisher: Xlibris Corporation
Total Pages: 413
Release: 2019-05-03
Genre: Fiction
ISBN: 1796031402

In 1888, a US Navy sailor begins writing letters to his niece. The letters tell her where he is and what ventures he has gotten himself into. His sailor letters are retrospective, written after things happen. He also must tell her how he got to the place in time he started writing. He is educated for the time, trained as a naval navigator, lighthouse repairman, and watch repairman. His language is as he would speak to his fellow crew—clipped, as sailors use few G sounds, and an apostrophe is used to indicate the word is shortened, as they do. He is honest and kind. He is well trained in sword fighting. His enlistment contract is not the standard form. His mother’s attorney wrote it. The fleet admiral approved it as he had served with the sailor’s uncle. His uncle was a noted ship navigator, shipmaster, an author of navy lore, and now provided ocean metrological data to the naval observatory. He has carried this on. His early experiences involve train travel to San Francisco. The ship charts the then Northwest Territory and the Alaskan coast. His group verifies charts of the Missouri River. Mostly, his ship supplies food provisions to navy frigates in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Salty Dog Talk

Salty Dog Talk
Author: Bill Beavis
Publisher: A&C Black
Total Pages: 97
Release: 2013-09-19
Genre: Sports & Recreation
ISBN: 1472901479

Most of us never realise how many words and expressions used in everyday English have a nautical origin. This fascinating and charming pocket book explains the seafaring beginnings of over 200 such phrases - colourful, bizarre and surprising - and how they came ashore. Just a few examples are: Chock-a-block Chance your arm Money for old rope Spic and span Push the boat out At close quartersThis entertaining book has been a popular title for boaters and landlubbers alike, ever since first publication in 1983. 'Good fun' Yachts and Yachting 'Entertaining, informative, educational and lots of fun' Multihull International 'An entertaining and informative little book' Motor Boats Monthly

Afloat at Last: A Sailor Boy's Log of His Life at Sea

Afloat at Last: A Sailor Boy's Log of His Life at Sea
Author: John C. Hutcheson
Publisher: Good Press
Total Pages: 200
Release: 2023-08-22
Genre: History
ISBN:

In 'Afloat at Last: A Sailor Boy's Log of His Life at Sea' by John C. Hutcheson, readers are transported to a vivid world of nautical adventures through the first-hand account of a young sailor. Written in a charming and descriptive style, Hutcheson captures the essence of life at sea in the 19th century, depicting the challenges and triumphs of a sailor boy's journey. The book provides valuable insights into maritime history and the seafaring lifestyle, making it a valuable resource for those interested in maritime literature. The engaging narrative style and attention to detail bring the experiences of the sailor boy to life, making it a captivating read for both literary enthusiasts and history buffs alike. John C. Hutcheson, known for his work in maritime fiction, draws upon his own experiences at sea to create a compelling and authentic portrayal of life on the ocean. His passion for storytelling and dedication to preserving the seafaring traditions are evident in 'Afloat at Last,' adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. Hutcheson's expertise in maritime literature shines through in this book, making it a standout work in the genre. For readers seeking a captivating and informative read about life at sea in the 19th century, 'Afloat at Last' is a must-read. Hutcheson's detailed accounts and genuine storytelling make this book a valuable addition to any maritime library, offering a glimpse into the world of a sailor boy and his adventures on the open sea.