Walter Noble Burns (1872–1932)

A Year with a Whaler, an enthralling memoir by an anonymous sailor, provides a captivating and insightful account of life aboard a whaling ship during a bygone era. The author's detailed recollections and vivid storytelling take readers on an immersive journey, offering a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of a whaling expedition.

From the very first page, the reader is transported to the vast, unforgiving seas as the author sets sail alongside a diverse crew of seasoned sailors. The descriptive prowess of the anonymous writer captures the essence of life on a whaling vessel, evoking a sense of both adventure and danger that permeates the narrative. The author's ability to recreate the sights, sounds, and smells of the sea creates a truly immersive reading experience.

One of the book's notable strengths lies in its portrayal of the camaraderie and hardships endured by the crew. The author's candid storytelling delves into the intricacies of life on board, from the daily routines and laborious tasks to the moments of unity and resilience. Through the author's observations and interactions with fellow sailors, readers gain a deep appreciation for the complex dynamics of life at sea and the bonds that form among those who share such challenging circumstances.

Furthermore, A Year with a Whaler provides valuable historical insight into the whaling industry of the time. The author's firsthand account offers a window into the mechanics of hunting and processing whales, revealing the arduous nature of the work and the impact it had on both the crew and the ocean's ecosystem. The author does not shy away from addressing the ethical implications of whaling, sparking contemplation and discussion about humanity's relationship with nature.

However, it is worth noting that some readers may find the narrative pacing inconsistent at times. The memoir occasionally delves into tangents and anecdotes that may temporarily disrupt the flow of the central storyline. While these diversions provide additional context and color to the overall narrative, they can occasionally detract from the main focus, leading to a slightly fragmented reading experience.

A Year with a Whaler is an eye-opening and educational memoir that immerses readers in a bygone era of maritime history. It serves as a testament to the strength and determination of those who ventured into the perilous world of whaling, while also highlighting the environmental impact of such practices. Through the author's anonymous account, readers gain a newfound respect for the ocean and its inhabitants.

In conclusion, A Year with a Whaler is a captivating and informative memoir that offers a compelling glimpse into the world of whaling. With its immersive storytelling and historical significance, this book is an engaging read for those interested in maritime history, ecological concerns, and tales of adventure on the high seas. The author's personal experiences resonate long after the final page, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those who pursued the life of a whaler.… (mere)

"The good: written in 1926, while some of the people who actually knew Billy the Kid were still alive and available for interviews; the style is unapologiticaly theatrical--emotional states and dramatic interpolations are an obvious attempt to flesh out the scenes and provide the reader with a reasonable feeling for the actions and thoughts of the participants.

The not-so-good: there doesn't seem to be any references to other sources than possible newspaper stories; there is obviously some exaggeration and spin in an effort to portray the Kid as a sociopath who was kind to his friends and damning to his enemies; there also didn't seem to be any attempt at scientific inquiry (although the '20s might not have been interested in the kind of analysis we cherish today)--for example Burns claims that the Kid was left handed because the one photo shows the Kid's handgun strapped to his left leg...even though we know that the ferrotype process produces reversed images.

Taking all that into account I enjoyed the story. When I couple it with the Wikipedia synopsys of Billy's life I don't see that the extra detail added more than a few intellectual tidbits and removed all the emotional coloring that makes the Kid worth knowing. And this book worth reading."… (mere)