Wind and Sail
The Nomadic Peoples of Wind and Sail
The Nomadic Peoples of Wind and Sail is a relatively recent nation formed by an alliance of Councils a century ago. Its anarchist tendencies are reflected by its motto of 'if the boat isn't moving, throw the skipper overboard', but the saying misleads by implying a harsh and unforgiving attitude to life - the nation is renowned for its compassionate socialist policies. However, a very high proportion of its citizens are endowed with the Spark - an ability to use scientific and technological priniciples to fantastic - and sometimes catastrophic - effect.*
Main languages spoken in the archipelago include Karsh, Carabas and Abbedon. These three are recognised as official languages - however they have different levels of subtlety in accordance with the attitudes of their island of origin. Hence the precise language of Abbedon is often used for negotiations and politics, the subtle, nuanced language of Carabas is prevalent in poetry and literature, while the simplistic Karsh usually finds its way into rabble rousing speeches and tabloid newspapers.
History and Politics
The many islands which make up Wind and Sail have lain off the coast of the Hethrumite continent since the dawn of time, but its diverse and fiercely independent factions resisted organised government until a mere century ago, when the Treaty of Councils forged by Erudan the Lawgiver allowed the already powerful Councils and Guilds to form a Parliament.
Over the years this Parliament has made many changes, perhaps the most important being the anti-capitalist initiatives spearheaded by Vardi the Verbose's crushing denouncement of the Guilds. Hence a vague concept of decentralised anarcho-socialism has guided most political thought, with local Councils holding much of the power and big business virtually illegal.
The organisation of most Councils is loose, with an elected triumvirate of Prime Ministers handling most affairs, and vaguely defined echelons of officials below them. The politicians with the most power tend to be Sparks, although it is certainly not a requirement for high office.
- For more information on the Spark and related subjects, 'True Events in the Life of Agatha Heterodyne' by Professors Foglio and Foglio of Transylvania Polygnostic University is a very comprehensive resource, and can be found at www.girlgeniusonline.com.
