Against the Tide
Introduction
In a world where laws become leverage, and dignity is tested by regulation, Against the Tide is a poetic chronicle of a seafarer’s struggle against the bureaucratic and human waves that buffet his course.
With biting satire, raw honesty, and rhythmic introspection, this work peels back the smiling veneer of officialdom to reveal the frustrations, resilience, and the hidden humor of those who sail not just across oceans, but through systems designed to sink them.
The verses here are grounded in truth — experienced, endured, and distilled through the poet’s pen.
Inspector and the Cigar:
The chief offered him a Havana cigar,
Hoping it might work
And mellow down the mood of the jerk.
“They are rolled on the thighs of virgin girls,” said he,
As the inspector accepted the cigar with glee.
He smelled it and kissed it lightly,
Dreaming things, enjoying bedding them perhaps vicariously...
Corruption in Uniform
“Ah! I understand,” said the captain.
“Thanks for telling me.
Now you don’t worry,
Just leave it to me...”
In their cans were live roaches and worms
Of every shape and form,
Robbing you with a gun of regulations,
Their aim not pollution, but extortion.
Absurdity at Sea
“It is a tetra pack, you know.
Plastic, paper, cardboard, and metal
Are used for making it.
To which bin does it go? Please tell.”
“Bozhe moy! Tarakan!”
Pointing to a roach
That seemed to have appeared from thin air.
The Inner World of a Seafarer
Dreams clash with harsh reality,
Life at sea no jubilant revelry.
Yet behind a merry facade they wear,
Smiles adorned, a brave, silent prayer.
Cheerful hues, shadows take flight,
Amidst beauty, wonder, adventure's wing.
Machinery and Desperation
Auxiliary engines take half their load,
Automatic they are, though
If they run even in manual mode,
You may thank your stars.
The coast guard waiting on the jetty to board,
Much before the gangway is lowered.
About the Author
Navneet Bakshi is a marine engineer by profession, and a poet, satirist, and storyteller by passion. His writing navigates the emotional cargo of those who spend a lifetime at sea — often unseen, often unheard. With a sharp wit and compassionate heart, he documents the daily absurdities, silent resilience, and understated heroism of maritime life.
He writes in both English and Hindi, blending poetic finesse with journalistic insight. Against the Tide is yet another wave from his world of words — compelling, immersive, and deeply human.
Call of Action
Read the full collection, experience the rhythm of resistance, and sail through the verses that speak for a thousand silent voices at sea.
Available now on Amazon India
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