The quote highlights the physical toll that whaling takes on individuals in the industry, specifically those who have spent years in the blubber rooms processing whale oil. The reference to "toes" implies that the harsh work environment leads to injuries or conditions that often result in the loss of extremities. This reflects the perilous and grueling nature of the whaling profession, which demands significant sacrifices from its workers.

In the context of "Moby-Dick," this statement not only illustrates the physical consequences of whaling but also symbolizes the broader themes of survival and the cost of obsession. As characters like Captain Ahab pursue their relentless quest for the whale, the literary work prompts readers to contemplate the lengths to which one will go for their ambitions, often at the expense of their health and humanity.