Five Reasons Why The Sea Wolf is Absolutely Worth Reading
January’s selection is Jack London’s classic novel, The Sea Wolf.
Most people know London for his dog stories. This novel has nothing to do with dogs, yet a “wolf” is still center stage—Wolf Larsen, a captain who is perhaps one of London’s most fascinating creations.
The story centers around what happens when Humphrey Van Weyden, an intellectual who lacks any blue-collar life experience, finds himself aboard this Wolf’s sealing schooner, completely at his mercy.
Below, I’ll share my recommendation for what to drink while reading. Before that, it seemed fitting to offer five reasons why this classic novel is worth reading this January.
To prepare for the unexpected in life.
Sea stories almost always involve some literary landlubber finding themselves locked into an unexpected voyage at sea. That may never happen to you. But you will surely find yourself thrown into situations outside of your control, that require skills you don’t have, and that are vastly uncomfortable. Reading stories like The Sea Wolf provides assets for your imagination, enabling you to persevere and navigate these kinds of experiences well.
To consider the importance of developing both body and mind.
The Sea Wolf tells the story of someone who’s impressive intellectually but underdeveloped physically and even relationally. Then, through unforeseen circumstances, he’s forced into developing his weaknesses and is better for it. Life may never force you to develop your weaknesses, but this novel provides the chance to evaluate yourself, and consider where growth might help most.
To reflect on romance, and marriage, from another angle.
The second half of the novel introduces a romantic element. Through it, London was attempting to depict the partnership that’s possible within romantic relationships. In doing so, he offers an angle that’s often left unconsidered in commitments like marriage, but one that’s worth some reflection.
To expand what you know of this classic American author.
Jack London was once the highest-paid author in America. He’s never held long favor in the circles that deem certain works “classics,” but clearly, his work bears lasting value. This novel is a chance to get acquainted with another part of his writing that displays real depth.
To enjoy a great sea story.
London once rode on a sealing schooner that made the very same passage taken in the novel. Therefore, he knows what he’s writing about, and what he writes is a great story. It’s worth reading because it’s enjoyable, and it’s a great opportunity to dive into the literature of the Sea.
So, come on! Grab a copy and delve into the adventure that awaits.
The Whisky Sour
As we delve into our inaugural sea story, it seemed fitting to recommend a cocktail that’s long held an association with those who live at sea.
According to legend, the whisky sour originated among 19th-century sailors. It makes sense.
The drink requires few ingredients, all of which would’ve been available aboard any schooner sailing across the Pacific. Sailors could tip one back in the evenings below deck to soothe their nerves, unwind, and keep scurvy at bay.
There are quite a few variations—floating red wine on top, mixing in an egg white, bitters vs no bitters—the options abound.
Personally, I prefer the drink with egg whites and some classic Angostura bitters. Plus, a cherry for garnish.
However you take yours, I invite you to join the ranks of sailors across the centuries, much like those who stride across the pages of London’s novel, who lived aboard schooners at sea for months and years at a time, enjoying whiskey sours on the regular.
Recipe for a Whiskey Sour
2 oz. bourbon
3/4 oz. simple syrup
3/4 oz. lemon juice
egg whites - from 1 egg (when doubling the recipe, I still only use 1 egg)
1 dash Angostura bitters
1 cocktail cherry, for garnish
Steps
Add all ingredients to a shaker (with no ice). Shake for 10-15 seconds.
Add ice and shake for an additional 10-15 seconds.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Add a skewered cocktail cherry for garnish.
Enjoy!
Next week, I’m sending a list of resources that I found helpful in understanding and enjoying the novel better.
Until then, enjoy your reading!
-Trevor
The best cocktails have whiskey/bourbon in them...in my humble opinion. 🙌🏼 Love a whiskey sour!