In Herman Melville's "Moby-Dick," the speaker reflects on the stability of the world, questioning if it is anchored to anything substantial. This contemplation reveals a sense of uncertainty about existence and the forces that govern life, suggesting that if the world is indeed tied down, it seems to have an exceedingly long tether that allows it to sway freely.

This metaphor of an anchored world emphasizes the complexity and unpredictable nature of life. The imagery of the 'long cable' evokes feelings of vulnerability as the world oscillates, hinting at the chaos that can ensue when stability is not firmly established. The quote captures the essence of existential inquiry that runs throughout the novel.