In Joyce Carol Oates' book "Lovely, Dark, Deep," the narrative draws a parallel between the explorations of Henry Hudson and Christopher Columbus. Both were driven by the desire to discover new trade routes; Hudson aimed for the Pacific Ocean, while Columbus sought a path to the East Indies. This comparison highlights the human thirst for adventure and exploration, reflecting how these journeys, while seemingly straightforward, are much more complex.

The excerpt suggests that despite our intentions, the paths we think we are choosing may not be the ones that ultimately define our journeys. Instead, it's the unforeseen routes and experiences that shape our destinies, echoing a deeper philosophical reflection on the nature of exploration and purpose, both in literal travel and in life itself.