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get a feel for the action.

Except for the occasional longer passage Dana used technical language sparingly and in its proper place. His illustration of a storm, and the damage it caused to sails and rigging was somewhat relentless; but then so was the gale.

Again, used in moderation, he brilliantly captured the social language of the foremast hands adding color, and a sense of life, to the daily routines and constant hardships of shipboard life.

It has often been said that a ship is a microcosm of life, and Dana certainly found it both necessary, and comforting to become an active and useful member of the focsle. As a participant observer he quickly learned the ropes, taking a pride in his new role and finding an admiration for his shipmates. He was often astonished at the depth of knowledge and intelligence to be found amongst his new associates.

Dana's shipmates may have made light of the ever present danger and discomfort, but they always shared their burden equally. Nevertheless, the body of the book is written impartially and with a remarkable lack of sentimentality.

For students of maritime literature this is invaluable. But there is also a priceless, eyewitness, account of California's early days.

As this was a trading voyage it entailed an extensive stay in Californian ports whilst the vessel sold its trade goods and found, prepared and loaded its return cargo of hides. Dana spent a considerable amount of time ashore in this early Spanish settlement.

As a straightforward reminiscence this is a narrative of events with no plot. Whilst his journey did have a beginning, and a middle, the reader must decide whether the culmination of the voyage was actually an end for Dana. It certainly concluded the trip; but there is a great feeling, especially in the afterword, that this was just the starting point for the author's personal voyage through life, that his experiences had shaped him, providing a self knowledge to be proud of.

Nevertheless, the afterword, written some years after first publication, does descend into sentimentality; although once again it provides valuable material for the historian of California.

Whilst Dana's reasons for writing the book are stated in the foreword one gets the sense that he had his own, more personal, agenda. There is a recurring sense of wonder at his own accomplishments and some intensely moving descriptions of his companions.

Two years in the cramped confines of the sailors quarters showed an author who consistently looked for the redeeming qualities in his companions, and consistently found them. He wasn't squeamish about drawing the reader's attention to their faults, nor did he attempt to excuse them. Simply setting the facts on the page and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.

Anyone with even a passing interest in maritime history should read this and students of American literature needn't worry if they find this on their reading lists. It is above all an enjoyable read, and no less important for that.

Learn more about this author, Michael Carroll.
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