Posted by Mike Field on December 17, 2002 at 12:20:25 from 203.26.98.4 user mikefield.
In Reply to: Re: Waggle in Wake posted by DavidShelton on December 16, 2002 at 08:11:49:
"It might be that Ransome, being used to all these variations, liked the challenge of trying to sail straight, hence the fascination."
I think this is the key to it. To AR's way of thinking, a good helm is able to anticipate and allow for variations in wind speed and direction as they occur, not in reaction to them. The first results in no "wake waggles," the second in a continuing series of them as temporary course adjustments are made after the event.