An Englishman Adrift: Six Weeks in Chaos
In this riveting memoir, one Englishman finds himself navigating the treacherous waters of working offshore in Brazil. He records his experiences, worries, conversations and struggles over the course of one of his many six-week stints away from family and the comforts of home. He encounters a whirlwind of cultures, faces the incompetence of co-workers, and endures deplorable working conditions. From hospital stays caused by poor nutrition to daring motorcycle escapades through the streets of Rio de Janeiro, the journey is anything but smooth. The narrative dives deep into the grim realities of fetid toilets, perilous work environments, and the constant ache of missing family back home. The author dives headfirst into a chaotic world filled with spoiled food, backstabbing management, and unmotivated colleagues, uncovering the hidden struggles of everyday survival. Through incisive reflections on political corruption, ineffective parenting, alcoholism, and other societal challenges, he wrestles with the emotional and psychological toll of his journey. As the weight of these adversities' mounts, he faces the ultimate question: is resilience enough to make it all worthwhile? This is a compelling story of perseverance, raw humanity, and one man's unyielding determination to confront life's harsh realities. For 15 years, the author has navigated the high seas and endured the tumultuous waves of offshore work. He's mastered the art of "winging it," skilfully dodging management when slipping up and managing to stay off the ever-looming redundancy list. The pressure of leaving his family for months on end nearly spiralled him into an uncontrollable addiction. This is the raw and unfiltered story of resilience, survival, and finding strength in the face of overwhelming challenges. Buckle up for an emotional and eye-opening journey that reveals the real-life grit behind the seemingly calm facade and offers insights into the realities of working at sea for months at a time to the benefit of shareholders and multinational corporations. Will he commit to a further trip in Brazilian waters?
About The Author: Michael's life has been defined by resilience and adaptability. From joining the military at just 17 years old to spending 24 years traveling the globe and working in some of the world's most impoverished and exploited regions, he has seen humanity at its most vulnerable. His journey has taken him through war zones, dangerous offshore platforms, and the harsh realities of life in countries under the thumb of multinational corporations. With 15 years of experience as an offshore electrician, Michael has faced gruelling working conditions and witnessed both absurd and reckless moments that have left an indelible mark. Now, he shares his reflections in Offshore Confidential-a straightforward and unfiltered account of memorable experiences, written with the honesty and relatability of someone who's lived it all first-hand.
