[Last modified: October, 18 2024 05:16 PM]
This was interesting. I’m not a fisherman and haven’t spent long periods of time with fishers nevertheless, the questions allowed me to focus on where my interest in the topic comes from and what preconceived opinions, expectations, biases and insights I bring to the project.
My project, in part, examines how non-biological kinship relations can be formed from very stressful situations, primarily amongst all male groups, and what role these may have in the broader community. Having spent some time in the military I have experienced this first hand and therefore my expectation is that I may find the same bonds formed amongst fishing crews. It is also coloured by my childhood as a regular visitor to Whitby where I watched the boats coming in and unloading their catch – as this was some 40yrs ago I undoubtedly also bring some ‘rose-tinted’ memories to the project! In addition, I have anticipated all male fishing crews so I am bringing a gendered expectation of what I will encounter which may or not be the case. In addition it may be that even where crews are 100%, or predominantly, male that may not be relevant as the more important non-biological kinship relations may well be onshore amongst the partners of the fishers – providing mutual support and community integrity.
The final point I have considered is my own age – at 58 I am not a stereotypical student! This may make my interlocators uncomfortable, incredulous or dismissive. There is a little I can do about this except to be aware. Clearly for some people this may be a positive…