Neal Shaffer

“Old Salt”

For the most part, browsing the internet is a large experience. You’re in a big room with a lot of people but, more often than not, you’re alone in a crowd. Everyone is. Now and then, though, it’s possible to find a better, smaller experience. Less like a warehouse and more like a corner store. Something where the lack of options is both a feature and a benefit. Where you trust the goods on hand because you trust the shopkeep.

Tonight I was browsing the “Silver and Gold” page over at Jay Carroll’s One Trip Pass (some mildly nsfw stuff there) and I came upon the image you see above. Something about the tattoo typography and unexpected wordplay seduced me. Partially because of just what it is, but also partially because I admire Carroll’s eye. I knew he had a reason for putting it there and I wanted to know more.

Turns out, an “Old Salt” is a teller of sea stories. A keeper of naval history and traditions who passes them on via storytelling. A “seen it all” type who might, just might, exaggerate on occasion. Right up my alley and the kind of thing I kind of can’t believe I hadn’t known about before now.

Here’s to the Jay Carrolls of the world who tend their internet gardens the right way. Good taste and a keen eye win every time.