Nautical Myths and Superstitions Sailors are a notoriously superstitious lot - even if some won't admit it. Years of taking to the water, at the mercy of uncontrollable (and sometimes deadly) forces, have led even the wisest to seek ways of influencing the gods or fate. From bad omens and odd rituals to lucky tokens and forbidden words, the superstitions of the sea are legion. Many of these superstitions have refused to go away and quite a few have entered the general public consciousness. Some are amusing in their own right, others have fascinating origins, whilst for many there are bizarre anecdotal incidents which would appear to lend credence to these arcane beliefs. Illustrated with quirky cartoons, this book explores nautical superstitions from all over the world in an informative yet entertaining way. Includes superstitions about: Boatbuilding, naming and launching; Lucky and unlucky dates to sail; People, things and animals not to let on board; Signs and portents at sea; Words not to say (and their alternatives); Predicting the weather; Fishing; and much, much more! |
Book of the month (July 2011): 'A recommended and entertaining read.'
'Fascinating ... it's hard to read the book without feeling that if one chose to pay heed to all the superstitions, you wouldn't go to sea at all!'
'Illustrated with comical cartoons, this quirky collection of nautical myths and superstitions explores the folklore of the sea and will inform and entertain seafarer and landlubber alike.'
‘Eyers's mix of old and new superstitions, evidence and eyewitness accounts make for a diverse and entertaining read.’ |
