Foreign stars in the nights down there. A whole new astronomy Mensa, Musca, the Chameleon. Austral constellations nigh unknown to northern folk. Wrinkling, fading, through the cold black waters. As he rocks in his rusty pannier to the sea's floor in a drifting stain of guano. What family has no mariner in its tree? No fool, no felon. No fisherman.
The passage reflects on the unfamiliarity of southern constellations, such as Mensa, Musca, and Chameleon, which are rarely seen by people from the northern hemisphere. It conveys a sense of wonder and mystery associated with these far-off stars that illuminate the night sky. The imagery evokes a feeling of isolation as one contemplates the vast, dark ocean depths where these constellations flicker above.
Furthermore, it hints at the universal connection to the sea and maritime life, suggesting that every family has a historical tie to the ocean through mariners. The mention of various figures—fools, felons, and fishermen—implies a shared human experience shaped by the sea's influence. This connection transcends boundaries, emphasizing the age-old relationship between humanity and the maritime world.
