Colonizer

Fold parchment or vellum in half
crosswise, then in half again. Flatten
the crease with a fingernail or the edge
of a baren. See how many smaller squares
you can get as you keep going from there.
Open it up and spread it on the table.
Imagine what it's like to dip a pen
nib in ink and make points 
all over this grid. Along one edge,
draw a three-masted ship with all sails 
furled to the wind. Wash the other
side with darkness. As you press
forward, gather marvels from each
rock-faced island. How many 
variations of your name 
will you grant each one 
as you pass?