We Are Not Afraid To Die…

If We Can All Be Together.

By Gordon Cook and Alan East

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… If We Can All Be Together” is an inspiring true story about a family’s survival during a perilous sea voyage. Written by Gordon Cook and Alan East, it recounts the Cook family’s attempt to sail around the world in their boat, the Wavewalker. During their journey, they face a life-threatening storm but display courage, teamwork, and resilience in their fight for survival.

Gordon Cook is a sailor and adventurer who experienced the events firsthand, while Alan East, a writer, helped shape the narrative into a compelling account. The story is a testament to human endurance and the power of togetherness.

Q: List the steps taken by the captain:

1. To protect the ship when rough weather began.
2. Check the flooding of the water on the ship.

i). To protect the ship when rough weather began:

Ans. The captain took several preventive measures before the storm hit. He decided to double-lash everything, which meant he secured all the loose items on the ship. He also ensured that they carried the necessary equipment to face the storm. Additionally, he went to the extent of checking and rechecking the life rafts, emergency supplies, and other survival gear.

ii). To check the flooding of the water in the ship:

Ans. When the ship started flooding, the captain and his crew began pumping out water with the help of hand pumps and an electric pump. They also managed to temporarily repair the damage by covering the broken parts of the ship with waterproof canvas and heavy ropes. Despite the injuries and exhaustion, they continued their efforts to keep the ship afloat.

Q: Describe the mental condition of the voyagers on 4 and 5 January.

Ans. On 4th and 5th January, the voyagers were in a state of extreme anxiety and stress. They were battling for their lives, with the ship severely damaged and their supplies running low. Despite their fear, they showed remarkable resilience and determination. The crew members and the family were overwhelmed with the possibility of death, yet they did not give up hope. The constant efforts to keep the ship afloat and the need to reassure the children added to their mental strain, but their collective resolve helped them push through.

Q: Describe the shifts in the narration of the events as indicated in the three sections of the texts. Give a subtitle to each section.

Ans. The story can be divided into three sections, each with a distinct focus and tone:

Section 1: “The calm before the storm”: This part of the story describes the initial excitement and preparation for the voyage. The narrator introduces the crew and details the beginning of their journey. There is a sense of adventure and anticipation.

Section 2: “The onslaught of the storm”: This section deals with the arrival of the storm and the ensuing chaos. The tone shifts from calm and anticipation to tension and fear as the crew battles the elements. The narration becomes more intense, focusing on the immediate dangers they face.

Section 3: “Survival and hope”: In this final section, the narrative shifts to the aftermath of the storm. The crew’s efforts to stay alive, their emotional states, and the eventual sighting of land are described. The tone here is one of relief and renewed hope.

Q: What difference did you notice between the reaction of the adults and the children when faced with danger?

Ans. The adults in the story reach the danger with a mix of fear and determination. They were fully aware of the gravity of the situation and took practical steps to ensure their survival. On the other hand, the children displayed a more innocent and optimistic outlook. Despite understanding that they were in a dangerous situation, the children remained hopeful and positive, even expressing confidence that their father would save them. Their reactions provided a source of comfort and motivation to the adults.

Q: How does the story suggest that optimism helps to endure “the direst stress”?

Ans. The story suggests that optimism is a crucial element in enduring extreme stress. The hope and positive attitude of the children played a significant role in motivating the adults to keep fighting for survival. Even when the situation seemed hopeless, the belief that they could survive helped them preserve. This optimism was not just a passive feeling but translated into actions that ultimately led to their survival.

Q: What lessons do we learn from such a hazardous experience when we are face-to-face with death?

Ans. Hazardous experiences, such as the one described in the story, teach us the value of resilience, teamwork, and hope. When faced with life-threatening situations, people discover inner strengths they may not have known they possessed. These experiences also highlight the importance of preparedness and the human capacity to endure and overcome even the direst circumstances. Additionally, such experiences often bring people closer together, reinforcing the bonds of family and friendship.

Q: Why do you think people undertake such adventurous expeditions in spite of the risks involved?

Ans. People undertake adventurous expeditions despite the risks for several reasons. The thrill of adventure, the desire to test one’s limits, and the pursuit of discovery are powerful motivators. For some, it is about the challenge and sense of achievement that comes with overcoming obstacles. For others, it is about the connection to nature and the desire to explore the unknown. Despite the dangers, the rewards of such experiences are growth, unforgettable memories, and the satisfaction of having faced and conquered challenges are often worth the risks.