This anthology is a comprehensive collection of poetic works by a 19th-century American writer, more commonly known for his contributions to classic literature through his novels. The poems within this compilation reflect a range of themes, from the profound depths of the sea and the whaling life to meditations on the human condition, nature, and the cosmos. The author's use of rich, evocative language and his exploration of existential questions demonstrate his literary prowess beyond his prose, revealing a multifaceted contemplation of the world and the author's own internal landscape.

This historical narrative tells the true story of the 19th-century whaleship Essex, which was rammed and sunk by a sperm whale in the South Pacific. Stranded thousands of miles from land, the crew of the Essex was pushed to their limits and forced to do the unthinkable to stay alive. The tale explores the harrowing ordeal of these men through their long journey at sea, their encounters with nature's fury, hunger, disease, and their own fear and despair.

"The North Water" by Ian McGuire is a dark historical fiction novel set in the 19th century that follows the journey of a whaling ship called the Volunteer and its crew as they embark on a dangerous voyage to the Arctic. The protagonist, Patrick Sumner, a disgraced surgeon, joins the crew as they set out on the perilous journey. However, the voyage takes a disturbing turn when they encounter a psychopathic harpooner named Henry Drax, who is capable of unspeakable acts of violence. The novel explores themes of morality, survival, and the human condition in a harsh and unforgiving environment.