Customer Reviews

Harpoon Venture (Wilder Places)

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

Maxwell's attempts to set up a Basking shark fishery based on what was then his island, Soay. The reader does not need to venture out into a small boat off the coast of Skye to get a feel for this experience. The writing lacks a little of the delicate wistfulness of the 'otter' books yet there is no doubting his style and beautifully descriptive prose. Being born into nobility was no guarantee of a successful life and it shows great tribute to the man that he was willing to get his hands dirty in this way. A lot of useful research on Basking sharks came from this venture and provides a rare window into an age that is past.

Gavin Maxwell writes movingly of his attempt to start a shark-fishing business off the coast of Scotland in the post-war 1940's. He mixes great descriptions of people and place with the honest account of a failed business enterprise. Maxwell is excellent at making a good story from his life experiences. An interesting read even if you don't like shark-fishing!

This book is rough going. Maxwell is a talented writer, but the story tends to drag periodically throughout the work. However, this IS the story of a failed business enterprise, so one cannot expect an inspiring tale. It is filled with frustration, dashed hopes, and melancholy.

Despite this grim description, I do believe that this is worth your time if you are interested in the basking shark, or simply a story set a maritime setting. I have wanted to visit the Scottish Isles since reading this book. And Maxwell's descriptions of his companions make up for the generally somber tone.

This was a pleasure to read.

P.S. the title of this critique comes from the book.