Windjammers and Sea Tramps

"Windjammers and Sea Tramps" by Walter Runciman is a historical reflection on the world of sailors, set in the early 1900s. The book explores the lives and transformations of those who worked England's ships throughout multiple centuries. It considers the various traditions, beliefs, and changing circumstances encountered by seamen, discussing equally the idealistic and unforgiving parts of life on the sea. At the book's opening, the author introduces his own history and adventures in the maritime world, stating that his thoughts come from firsthand experience and historical perspective. He portrays the sailors' personas, highlighting their courage but also the ways they were mistreated and the superstitions that affected their lives. Through stories and observations, Runciman prepares to show the complex nature of seamanship and the way people viewed sailors from the days of heroes like Drake and Hawkins to the early 20th century, as he judges sailors of his day and the troubles they endure.