Moby Dick; Or, The Whale

Theory of Whale Dyspepsia

Theory of Whale Dyspepsia** A striking irony emerges: refined ladies and gentlemen regale themselves with an essence found in the inglorious bowels of a sick whale. Ambergris is supposed either to be the cause or the effect of dyspepsia in the whale. The humorously proposed cure involves administering three or four boat loads of Brandreth’s pills, followed by fleeing out of harm’s way—much as laborers escape during rock blasting.

Squid Bones in Ambergris

Squid Bones in Ambergris** Within the ambergris examined, certain hard, round, bony plates were discovered. Initially, Stubb speculated they might be sailors’ trouser buttons, but it was later determined these were simply pieces of small squid bones, preserved and embalmed within the ambergris.

Reflection on Incorruption

Reflection on Incorruption** The narrator reflects on the profound paradox that incorruption should be found in the heart of decay—this most fragrant ambergris emerging from such decomposition. This prompts meditation on St. Paul’s saying in Corinthians regarding corruption and incorruption: “we are sown in dishonor, but raised in glory.” The narrator also recalls Paracelsus’s teachings about what constitutes the finest musk, as well as the curious fact that among all malodorous substances, Cologne water in its rudimental manufacturing stages is the worst.

Defense of the Whaling Trade

Defense of the Whaling Trade** Though the narrator wishes to conclude with the spiritual appeal, anxiety drives an attempt to repel a charge frequently leveled against whalemen—accusations that might appear substantiated by earlier mentions. While the slatternly, untidy reputation has been disproved elsewhere in this volume, another matter requires rebuttal: the suggestion that all whales always smell bad.