Big words + Lumpy times
LUMPY
adj lumpier, lumpiest
- full of or having lumps
- (Transport / Nautical Terms) (esp of the sea) rough
- confused seas
We headed south on ‘lumpy’ seas from Scalloway towards Sumburgh Head. Our direction towards the East side was guided by the weather forecast and I was pleased to be moving at last. I have been on boats before and not felt an ounce of seasickness. However as things got LUMPY, I found myself paralysed with seasickness until we turned around Sumburgh head in South Shetland. I will not go into details but let’s say it was an uncomfortable few hours trapped in my cabin missing out on those exciting big waves.
Big Words
In our time in Shetland we have learnt about the big words…. OIL, PELAGIC SUPER TRAWLER, FISHFARMS and QUOTAS. We have also learned many a new word relating to the boat (mizzen, halliard, jib). At times it has been overwhelming and it will take me some time to research and understand my new vocabulary.
LUMPY times
LUMPY is a great description for confused seas and it seems particularly apt in relation to the confused times we live in with changes in climate and resources. There are many big things to be discussed and many small things to notice. Sailing the boat is an important lesson in resourcefulness through maintaining supplies, conserving water, electricity and contributing to a collaborative effort in our journey together. At times our words most spoken on the journey seemed to be SHOWER, COMPUTER, WIRELESS INTERNET, CHARGER, and ELECTRICITY as we desired to be clean, to photograph, to message, to blog and to be creative. We discussed the big things but often overlooked the small things such as a cabin bunk light left switched on.
Which could you give up? INTERNET or SHOWER?
This was a question put to the group by myself and Tom Rand, Most of the group interestingly opted for the shower option rather than the internet . However it didn’t take us long to be back on our screens after the discussion. Inspired by this, Sebrina (who found the choice most difficult) created a poignant and beautiful piece of performance poetry which can be viewed here
The blogs, tweets and links to our other worlds are important in disseminating information on the trip. Though I did wonder just how our trip would be if there had been a ban on all things screen, camera and electrical.
LUMPY times indeed!
No Comments