War-like
Columbus writes, “I do not, however, see the necessity of fortifying the place (Lucayos), as the people here are simple in war-like matters, as your Highnesses will see by those seven which I have ordered to be taken and carried to Spain in order to learn our language and return, unless your Highnesses should choose to have them all transported to Castile, or held captive in the island.” Columbus uses the metaphoric ‘war-like to emphasize that inhabitants of Lucayos are not aggressive; hence, they would be conquered effortlessly. Columbus’ observation suggests that he is assessing the possibility of colonizing the island which would be complicated if the inhabitants were advanced in war matters.
Haven
Columbus recounts, “I steered to the northwest and arriving at the extremity of the island at two leagues' distance, I discovered a remarkable haven with two entrances, formed by an island at its mouth, both very narrow, the inside capacious enough for a hundred ships, were there sufficient depth of water.” The haven is similar to a sanctuary that would safely accommodate numerous ships. It catches Columbus’ attention because of its unique form.
Pear
Columbus elucidates, “I have now seen so much irregularity, that I have come to another conclusion respecting the Earth, namely, that it is not round as they describe, but of the form of a pear, which is very round except where the stalk grows, at which part it is most prominent; or like a round ball upon part of which is a prominence like a woman's nipple." Columbus refutes Ptolemy's assertion regarding the earth's shape. According to Columbus, the earth's shape is similar to a pear and not round. Columbus feels that the earth's prominent protrusion would result in an utterly round shape. Columbus proves that Ptolemy’s conclusions about the earth’s shape are not utterly perfect.
Herbs
Columbus writes, “At dawn, on that Monday, they saw much more weed appearing, like herbs from rivers, in which they found a live crab, which the Admiral kept.” The weeds’ appearance is similar to herbs.’ This sighting is important because it denotes the existence of life. Moreover, it gives the impression that there would be land nearby that could be explored.
A River
Columbus reports, “The Admiral continued on the west course until afternoon…Day and night they made 31 leagues, counting 24 for the people. The sea was like a river, the air pleasant and very mild.” Comparing the sea to a river underscores its mildness. Seas are usually larger than rivers and they occasionally have strong waves. The river-like ambiance of the seas facilitates smooth sailing for the Admiral.
