In Herman Melville's "Moby Dick," the phrase "Oh, horrible vultureism of earth!" expresses a deep indignation towards the predatory nature of life and humanity's relentless exploitation of the natural world. This vivid imagery illustrates how even the largest and most powerful creatures, like the whale, are not exempt from the violent and consuming tendencies of existence. The reference to vultureism signifies a critique of how beings prey upon one another, underscoring a cycle of destruction that pervades the earth.

This sentiment resonates throughout the novel, as Melville examines the struggle of the individual against powerful forces that govern their fate. The whale, a symbol of nature's grandeur, becomes a victim of mankind's insatiable desire for domination. Melville's portrayal of this natural struggle invites readers to reflect on the ethical implications of their own actions, emphasizing that no creature, regardless of size or strength, can completely escape the moral complexities and harsh realities of existence.