Moby Dick Reflection #1

Ana Luiza Bueno

Melville gives improbable and conflicting attributes to people and objects to show a break in stereotype. For one, a so-said “monster”, attributed as a horrifying cannibal and savage, was proven to be an exceptional man. The intimidating Queequeg, described in page 21, made Ishmael “so afraid of him” that he was not game enough just then to address him. Nonetheless, this purple monster was nothing less than a kind man who knew no better than to restrict himself to the boundaries of his culture.  “He really did this in not only a civil but a really kind and charitable way” pg. 23. Queequeg , despite sticking to traditions of his despised culture, cultivated decent and correct intentions, different from what others around would expect. In a like manner, the boat Ishmael chooses to adopt for the voyage does not possess the expected characteristics of one set apart for the sole purpose of whaling. Page 72 describes the ship as “old school, rather small if anything; with an old-fashioned  claw-footed look about her.” The Pequod was later found to be property of one of the best acclaimed and successful sailors around. It is to suppose, as Melville hints throughout the book, that his pattern of breaks in stereotype will continue to be found in the novel in a form of, what I consider, a critique.

The theme of whales and seamen is found in a wide range, if not most, of the descriptions regarding Ishmael’s surrounding. Even the sermon cited on page 43 could not help but focus on the subject of whales! Melville decided to include in the novel the only story concerning whales found in the Scriptures, and I refuse to believe it to be coincidence. I assume he does so to remind the reader of where the story is heading as a whole. With an abundance of descriptions, it is difficult to focus on the main point of the book. Melville even dared include on page 69 that the milk tasted of fish! As a very smart and skillful author, Melville makes sure as to not deviate the reader’s attention away, while still maintaining his label of profound and abundant descriptions. Every time sceneries and people are described, the author does so by linking the traits to the sea. I believe this will be a common pattern found throughout the book.

The use of philosophical thoughts, however minor, might be used further on as a minor theme or something to be looked for throughout the journey. I was amazed by the first section of the book and its profound thoughts and philosophies. Melville’s distinguished comprehension of the world cannot go unnoticed. One of the wonders of “Moby Dick” is the profoundness of the story. It is not merely the story or Melville’s wondrous writing, but also the questions and thoughts it puts out. For this matter, I and many others consider this book a masterpiece. Page 77 states, “For all men tragically great are made so through a certain morbidness”. Pages 63 and 64 are used to present the great loyalty Queequeg expresses to his idol and religion as a whole. Melville concludes the chapter by quoting Queequeg, “We cannibals must help these Christians”. Through Ishmael, the author expresses in page 56, “(…) yet see how elastic our stiff prejudices grow when once love comes to bend them.” It is not of my use to explain these claims, but to present and acknowledge them. I hope these “themes” may become clearer the further I get in the book.

Melville’s expressive language accomplishes his ends, which are namely to engrave the scenery and thoughts expressed by Ishmael into the reader’s mind, so as to build a greater sympathy and understanding toward the characters. Page 72 provides a thorough description of the Pequod, as “old school, rather small if anything; with an old-fashioned  claw-footed look about her(…) her masts stood stiffly up like the spines of the three old kings of Cologne. Her ancient decks were worn and wrinkled, (…) but to all these her old antiquities, were added knew and marvelous features ” Comparisons Melville makes, helps discern and understand exactly what each description means. His characterization of people are just as well thought out. Chapter 25 focuses on describing the men in charge of the ship and the author uses broad and detailed depictions of people in order to fixate their shapes and characteristics in the reader’s minds. Small particulars such as “suspended from his ears were two golden hoops” were described. These small details make the novel so much more enjoyable and understandable for readers, through relatable comparisons and vivid descriptions.