Waterworld

Abstract

The novel follows an unnamed character – referred to only as ‘the Mariner’ – in a version of Earth which has been completely covered by saltwater. The Mariner is a mutation, possessing gills and webbed feet, and therefore avoids most human settlements – atolls, large floating ‘cities’ comprised of innumerable vessels (from ships to simple rafts) attached to one another across a large expanse. After an attack on the atoll by a faction called the Smokers, who travel on engine-powered vessels, rather than using sails, the Mariner is joined on his own vessel by a child, Enola, and her guardian, Helen. It is later revealed that the Smokers attacked the atoll in search of Enola, as it is believed that marks tattooed on the child’s back chart the way to Dryland – a mythical place of solid ground. Though Enola is eventually captured by the Smokers, the Mariner rescues the child and reunites her with Helen. At around the same time, the Mariner also understands how to interpret the markings on Enola’s back, successfully guiding her, Helen, and a group of survivors from the atoll to a far-away island, reaching the promised Dryland.