An Analysis of Herman Melville's
Moby Dick

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The Pacific

An Analysis of Chapter 111

Tone

Reflective And Poetic, Turning To Intense And Resolute.

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Relaxed - (2) Clear - (4) There's some - (3) None - (1) Leisurely - (2)

Basically...

The narrator reflects on the Pacific Ocean's grandeur and mystery as they sail, contemplating its calm and dreaming presence in contrast to Ahab's intense focus on the pursuit of Moby Dick.

In more detail...

As the Pequod sails past the Bashee Isles and enters the Pacific Ocean, the narrator is taken with its immense beauty and serenity, offering a poetic meditation on the sea's allure and mystery. The ocean is personified with a soul and dreams, likened to a heart beating at the center of the Earth. The Pacific connects worlds and times, ranging from the coasts of new American towns to the ancient lands of Asia, surrounded by coral isles and unknown archipelagos. In contrast to this tranquil and divine description, the chapter then moves to Ahab, who stands resolute on deck. The Pacific does not soothe him, as his obsession with the white whale consumes his thoughts, dreams, and actions, rendering him impervious to the ocean's seductive qualities.
Characters
  • Ahab
    • About - Ahab stands at his spot beside the mizen rigging, deeply inhaling the contrasting scents of the Pacific while maintaining his fierce resolve in pursuing Moby Dick. His obsession is palpable, and he is unmoved by the serenity of the ocean that engulfs him.
    • Personality Traits - His demeanor is intense and single-mindedly focused, with a restless pursuit of the white whale driving him.
    • Physical Characteristics - He is described metaphorically as 'an iron statue,' which conveys his unyielding nature and determination.
    • Character Connections
      • Moby Dick - Ahab is consumed by his obsession to kill Moby Dick, symbolized by the sea in which the whale swims.