Posted by Peter Willis on October 18, 2004 at 22:42:55 from 195.92.168.166 user PeterWillis.
In Reply to: Re: Pretentious Sailing (was Coarse xxx) posted by Peter H on October 18, 2004 at 21:36:37:
I've always thought pretentious sailing was summed up in two words: 'yachting cap', based on the common experience or assumption that only those with not a clue about what to do in/with a boat would be seen in one. Of course ALec Rose is the exception that proves the rule. I've always somehow felt that the fact that he was a greengrocer allowed him to get away with it - presumably by demonstrating that yachting was not the exclusivce preserve of toffs.
Personally I tend to extend the concept to the wearing of double-breasted navy blazers with brass buttons, but the practice is so widespread that I would be paintiing myself into a very small corner if I were to persuethat one very far, and indeed I have owned such a garment myself. I certainly know many blazer-wearers whom I respect as sailors. (Nobody in their right mind would describe Andrew C-B or Laurence M as pretentious sailors)
However, Reg Russell, to whom Ransome sold Nancy, was described as a 'dirty-shirt' sailor, and I think spiritually I'm with him.
Needless to say we have not yet begun to explore the opportunities for pretension afforded by hiking, camping or other dry-bob persuits.