Descrizione
Filled with themyths and legends of the deep, this newillustrated editionof the cult classic folklore collection reveals the stories that swirled on the open seas and the customs that remain part of maritime life.
The vivid, often eerie,superstitions, tales and ritualsof the sea were the sailorsresponse to danger— immediate and uncontrolled. As a sailing-ship beat for weeks across the Southern Ocean, domain of the albatross, meeting no one in the lonely wastes, her crew felt an urgent need to appease the sea-gods. Even today, with engines, iron or fibreglass hulls, and less credulous seamen, much traditional sea lore has survived, especially in the fishing fleets.
Stories ofphantom ships and crews(from theFlying Dutchmanonwards), ofthe perennial sea-serpent, oflonely lighthouses; rituals such as thecrossing-the-line ceremoniesorblessing the fishing fleet;old weather lore, sailors’ chanties and sea language, taboos and talismans, precautions taken at keel-laying or launching — all these are recorded and interpreted here.
For everyone who enjoysstrange storiesand the chilly fascination of the unconquered sea or thrills to watch man pitting himself against merciless elements, this book is a delight and a mine of information. Margaret Baker is unrivalled at collectingtraditions of the pastand showing the part they have played for generations of men in their daily lives.
Illustrated by Philip Harris.
Edition: 2024
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