In Herman Melville's "Moby Dick," the character of the grave-digger stands out as he engages in making music while performing his somber task. This reflects a deeper insight into human behavior, suggesting that he turns to music to uplift his spirits or cope with the bleakness of his environment. The act of music-making serves as a form of expression and a means to bring joy into a bleak situation, symbolizing resilience amidst hardship.

The statement "the reason why the grave-digger made music must have been because there was none in his spade" implies that the work he does, digging graves, is devoid of beauty and joy. Instead of succumbing to despair, the grave-digger creates his own melody, highlighting the human need for creativity and emotional release even in the most dreary circumstances. This theme resonates throughout the novel, illustrating the struggle between life's challenges and the pursuit of happiness.