The Log from the Sea of Cortez

The Log from the Sea of Cortez: A Journey Through Time

Imagine stepping into a time capsule, where two great minds—John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts—set sail on an adventure that would shape their lives and influence generations to come. The Log from the Sea of Cortez, published in 1951, is not just a book; it’s a window into the early 20th century, where science, philosophy, and literature intertwine.

From Cannery Row to the Gulf of California

How did Steinbeck and Ricketts meet? It was through their shared passion for marine biology that these two men found common ground. In 1930, they began spending time together at Ricketts’ lab on Cannery Row, a place where ideas and dreams flourished. By 1939, both had achieved security and recognition in their respective fields, but their minds were restless.

The Trip That Changed Everything

They planned to produce a handbook of common intertidal species for the San Francisco Bay Area, but fate had other plans. Instead, they embarked on a six-week marine specimen-collecting boat expedition in the Gulf of California. The Western Flyer, a sardine fishing boat with a four-man crew, became their floating laboratory and home.

The Journey Begins

What challenges did they face? From the outset, their journey was fraught with obstacles. Their outboard motor, affectionately named ‘Hansen Sea-Cow,’ misbehaved frequently, adding to the stress of collecting specimens. They encountered strong winds on Isla Espiritu Santo and anchored instead of landing. In La Paz, they spent three days collecting with local help, enjoying the town’s hospitality.

Collecting Specimens

Their work was relentless. On San José Island, the ‘Sea-Cow’ failed again, but they continued their collection in Puerto Escondido, where they met holidaying Mexicans who invited them on a hunting trip. The trip was exhausting, with many stops and specimens to collect. Steinbeck wrote that he had little time for sleep due to the work.

The Return Journey

What did they discover? Over 500 species were catalogued during their expedition, with 50 new species discovered. Three sea anemones were even named after Steinbeck and Ricketts. Their journey culminated in the publication of Sea of Cortez: A Leisurely Journal of Travel and Research in 1941.

The Philosophical Journey

What themes did they explore? The book delves into the gap between science and faith, with Steinbeck applying his novel-writing skills to a scientific subject. Despite initial doubts about its appeal, the reviews were largely favorable, focusing on the affirmation of humankind’s place in the environment.

The Legacy

How did their journey impact future generations? The book provides insights into Steinbeck’s writing process and influences, including his character ‘Doc’ in Cannery Row. It is also an important example of Ricketts’ philosophical writings. As a travelogue, it captures a lost world, with a new hotel being built in La Paz as they made their trip, foreshadowing the impact of tourism on the area.

The Western Flyer Foundation

What happened to the Western Flyer? After their journey, the ship was rescued and restored as an educational and scientific project by the Western Flyer Foundation. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and discovery.

As we reflect on The Log from the Sea of Cortez, it’s clear that this journey was more than just a collection of specimens. It was a voyage into the heart of nature, philosophy, and human connection. The legacy of Steinbeck and Ricketts lives on in their words and the enduring spirit of exploration.