In the quote by James A. Michener from his book "Return to Paradise," the author reflects on the perception of what constitutes the great American novel. He finds it amusing that this significant literary work is not centered around the usual settings associated with American life, like New England or Chicago, but instead revolves around a fantastical white whale located in the South Pacific. This remark subtly critiques traditional literary expectations and highlights the unique narrative choice in American literature.

Michener’s observation invites readers to reconsider the themes and locales that define well-known American stories. By focusing on an extraordinary creature in a distant ocean rather than common American landmarks, he suggests that the essence of American literature can transcend geographical boundaries, drawing from the imagination and larger-than-life ideas. This perspective encourages a broader understanding of cultural narratives and the diverse ways they can be represented in literature.