In "The Satanic Verses" by Salman Rushdie, a reflection on survival emerges through the contrast between Captain Ahab and Ishmael. While Ahab, the obsessive captain from Melville’s "Moby Dick," meets his end, Ishmael, the narrator, lives on. This distinction underscores themes of obsession versus resilience, suggesting that those who are steadfast in their pursuits may not be the ones who ultimately prevail in the harsh realities of life.

This quote encapsulates the idea that survival often depends not on ambition or obsession, but on adaptability and chance. Ahab's tragic fate serves as a warning against the destructive nature of single-minded pursuits, while Ishmael represents the ability to endure change and uncertainty, highlighting the importance of finding a way to navigate life's challenges.