An Analysis of
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The Deck
An Analysis of Chapter 127
Tone
Philosophical And Foreboding With A Touch Of Irony.
Basic Stats
| Intensity | Clarity | Conflict | Resolution | Pacing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exciting - (3) | Clear - (4) | Calm - (2) | None - (1) | Moderate - (3) |
Basically...
Ahab reflects on life, death, and the philosophical ironies of creating life-preservers from a coffin, while the carpenter transitions from coffin-making to other tasks.
In more detail...
In this chapter, the previously constructed coffin that was meant for Queequeg now lies on deck, being re-purposed by the carpenter under Starbuck's orders. Ahab emerges, pondering the transformation of the coffin first into a life-buoy then potentially into something else, questioning the carpenter's role in both creating and ending life. His reflections lead him into a darker contemplation of life's imponderable thoughts. Ahab is struck by the sight of the grim symbol of death, the coffin, serving as a beacon of hope and life preservation while also musing about the nature of immortality. He commands the carpenter to clear away the signs of death upon his return to the deck. Then, in soliloquy, Ahab expresses a desire for deeper philosophical understanding, indicating a draw towards the unknown mysteries of life, which he muses could be flowing into Pip.
Characters
- Ahab
- About - Ahab emerges on deck, interacts with the carpenter, and expresses philosophical musings on life and death, using the coffin as a focal point for his reflection.
- Personality Traits - Melancholic, intense, philosophically inclined, and preoccupied with omens and signs.
- Physical Characteristics - Ahab is not physically described in this chapter, but from past descriptions, we know he is a stern, weathered man with a peg leg made of whalebone.
- Character Connections
- Carpenter - Commands and converses with the carpenter, questioning his roles on the ship.
- Pip - Mentions Pip following him and indicates a desire to engage in philosophical discussion with him.
- Carpenter
- About - The carpenter is seen transforming the coffin into a different object as Starbuck ordered and engages in a dialogue with Ahab, mostly responding to his queries and commands.
- Personality Traits - Submissive to Ahab, pragmatic, and unfazed by the morbid implications of his work.
- Physical Characteristics - His physical characteristics are not detailed in this chapter.
- Character Connections
- Ahab - Responds to and acknowledges Ahab's authority, and provides information regarding his tasks.
- Pip
- About - Pip is mentioned as following Ahab, who then dismisses him saying he will be with him shortly, suggesting a future interaction.
- Personality Traits - Foolish, simple, seems to idolize Ahab despite his own half-insanity.
- Physical Characteristics - Pip is not physically described in this chapter, but he is previously known to be a small black boy.
- Character Connections
- Ahab - Seems to closely follow Ahab, looking for guidance or a sense of purpose.