Meaning: The quote you've provided is from William Falconer, a Scottish poet best known for his maritime epic poem "The Shipwreck." In this particular quote, Falconer draws a parallel between the use of fishes (also known as fids) on a ship's yard and the application of splinters to a broken limb in surgery. This comparison highlights the ingenuity and practicality of using fishes to repair a broken yard, emphasizing their utility and the similarity of their function to that of splinters in medical treatment.

In the context of sailing and shipbuilding, a yard refers to a spar or a long tapering timber or metal pole that is attached horizontally to the mast of a sailing vessel. It serves as a support for the square sails, allowing them to be positioned to harness the wind effectively. Given the crucial role of the yard in sailing, any damage or fracture to it can significantly impact the vessel's maneuverability and performance. This is where the use of fishes comes into play.

Fishes, in the context of sailing, are wooden or metal splints or braces used to repair a broken or fractured yard. When a yard is sprung or fractured, the application of fishes serves to reinforce and stabilize the damaged area, effectively restoring the structural integrity of the yard. The process of employing fishes to repair a broken yard is akin to the application of splinters to a broken limb in surgery, as Falconer eloquently describes.

Drawing a parallel between the use of fishes on a ship's yard and the application of splinters in surgery underscores the resourcefulness and adaptability of seafaring communities in addressing challenges at sea. It also reflects the deep understanding of practical mechanics and the utilization of available resources in maritime endeavors. Just as a surgeon applies splinters to set and support a fractured bone, sailors and shipbuilders utilize fishes to mend and reinforce a damaged yard, ensuring that the vessel can continue its voyage with minimal disruption.

Furthermore, Falconer's comparison highlights the interconnectedness of knowledge across different domains. The analogy between maritime repair techniques and medical treatment underscores the universal principles of stabilization and restoration, whether applied to a sailing vessel or a human body. It also emphasizes the importance of practical skills and improvisation in addressing unforeseen circumstances, both at sea and in other spheres of life.

In conclusion, William Falconer's quote about the use of fishes on a ship's yard effectively captures the parallels between maritime craftsmanship and medical intervention, showcasing the ingenious application of practical solutions in the face of adversity. This comparison serves as a testament to the resourcefulness and adaptability of seafaring communities, as well as the universal principles that underpin the art of repair and restoration.