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In Search Of Moby Dick

Tim Severin

Herman Melville's novel MOBY DICK immortalised the concept of a battling white sperm whale but did such a creature really exist? Acclaimed explorer and writer Tim Severin travelled to the islands of the Pacific to find out.

From Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas archipelago to Pamilacan and Tonga Severin compares myth with reality in a fascinating journey of discovery. Along the way he investigates the real extent of Melville's whaling experience and unearths other potential sources for his famous story; encounters the extraordinary whale-jumpers who even now make their living by leaping on the backs of whales to ram home their spears; and observes a retired harpooner re-enact the curious ballet of a kill -- transporting himself to his youth in the process like a shaman from a forgotten age.

Superb travel writing combined with personal and historical anecdote make this a hugely enjoyable and enlightening exploration of one of the ocean's enduring myths.

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  • Classification : Travel & Travel Writing
  • Pub Date : OCT 5, 2000
  • Imprint : Abacus
  • Page Extent : 256
  • Binding : PB
  • ISBN : 9780349112336
  • Price : INR 599
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Tim Severin

Acclaimed adventure writer and explorer Tim Severin has made a career of retracing the journeys of literary or historical figures in replica vessels. These experiences have been turned into a body of captivating and illuminating books including The Brendan Voyage In Search of Genghis Kahn and In Search of Moby Dick. Severin has received numerous awards for exploration and geographic history including the Founder's Medal of England's Geographic Society. When not traveling he lives in County Cork Ireland.

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