Slow Learner "Introduction" and O'Brian Reference in Mason & Dixon

[davemarc]

In the Slow Learner "Introduction," Pynchon writes about feigning expertise
in his fiction.

In Mason & Dixon, he seems to offer an affectionate nod to historical
novelist Patrick O'Brian: "Not only does O'Brian know all there is to know
and more 'pon the Topick of Euphroes, and Rigging even more obscure,-- he's
also acknowleg'd as the best Yarn-Spinner in all the Fleets."

Now there's a BBC story challenging Patrick O'Brian's expertise:

Patrick O'Brian: Could he sail? An associate says not
The late Patrick O'Brian's celebrated maritime novels inspired legions of
fans to venture on to the ocean waves. But fresh evidence suggests the
legendary writer couldn't even sail.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/3570988.stm

d.