Generic rogue waves

 We present a basic analysis of the propagation of deep-water waves on curved trajectories. The key feature is that the amplitude of the wave varies transversely, and may result in the generation of a short-crested wave of high amplitude. The properties of these waves are explored, and it is suggested that they are a model for extreme waves, which may violate the conditions under which the classical statistical distribution of wave heights has been derived. In their full development, they are manifested as generic rogue waves.