Sailing is like writing

Original: Fiction

I’m indie writer Teague de La Plaine, author of the bestselling Sea at Sunrise and other stories. This is my weekly newsletter, where I talk about writing and self-publishing in addition to my own life. I keep the newsletter free, because I prefer you spend your money on my books.

The sun was just beginning to rise over Key West as I set sail on Makara, my 28-foot cutter-rigged Liberty Yachts sailboat, bound for the Dry Tortugas. The water was calm, the sky was clear, and the breeze was just perfect for a sail. It was an ideal day for an adventure on the high seas.

As I ventured out of the harbor, I couldn’t help but contemplate the journey ahead. Sailing to the Dry Tortugas was no small feat, but it had been a dream of mine for years. I had devoured countless books about the islands, their rich history, and the exhilarating adventures that awaited those willing to embark on this voyage.

With each passing mile, the wind picked up, propelling Makara forward with exhilarating force. I felt a surge of freedom and excitement that I had never experienced before. The boat effortlessly cut through the water, promising an incredible adventure.

However, as we sailed further from shore, the water became choppy, and the wind howled fiercely. Makara began to pitch and roll, and a wave of fear and uncertainty washed over me. In that moment, I recalled a quote from Stephen King about writing:

“The scariest moment is always just before you start.”

I came to understand that this wasn’t just true for writing, but for life in general. The most terrifying moments are the ones right before you embark on a new, challenging endeavor that pushes you beyond your comfort zone. However, once you take that initial step, the fear gradually dissipates, and the adventure truly begins.

Photo by Boba Jovanovic on Unsplash

With this thought in mind, I grasped the tiller and embarked on my journey. The wind howled, and the waves rose, yet I felt a profound sense of tranquility and resolute determination. I was certain that I could overcome any obstacle and reach the Dry Tortugas.

As I ventured into the vast expanse of the open sea, I couldn’t help but reflect on a profound quote by Stephen King regarding writing:

“Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work.”

I couldn’t afford to wait for ideal conditions, perfect winds, or the perfect moment. I had to rise and head to work, making the most of whatever circumstances presented themselves.

Thus, I embarked on my journey, navigating through tempests and tranquil periods, encountering rough waters and smooth seas, until finally, the distant islands came into view. The Dry Tortugas lived up to my expectations, boasting crystal-clear waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and an abundant array of wildlife.

As I anchored Makara and dinghied ashore, I couldn’t help but reflect on a final piece of advice that Stephen King had imparted regarding writing:

“The most important things are the hardest to say. They are the things you get ashamed of because words diminish your feelings.”

The most significant aspects—the ones that truly matter—are often the most challenging to convey. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to make an effort, to express ourselves and share our experiences with others, even if our words don’t fully encapsulate the full spectrum of our emotions.

Ultimately, the voyage to the Dry Tortugas was not merely a sailing adventure but a profound life lesson. It instilled in me the courage to confront my fears, the determination to take action, and the resilience to express myself even when the words elude me. For that, I will always be grateful.

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