In Jay Parini's novel "The Passages of H. M.: A Novel of Herman Melville," the protagonist reflects on his nostalgia for the simpler, more organic experience of sailing. He recalls a time when the ship felt alive, responding gracefully to the natural elements rather than being a rigid machine focused solely on reaching a destination. This sentiment evokes a longing for a connection to the past, emphasizing a more harmonious relationship with nature.

This reflection serves as a commentary on the modern era, which often prioritizes efficiency and goal-oriented progress over the pleasure of the journey itself. The character's yearning represents a broader critique of society's mechanization and loss of a more mindful approach to life, highlighting the contrast between the soulful experience of sailing and the relentless drive for advancement characteristic of contemporary times.