In Moby Dick, Herman Melville explores the human condition through the struggles and desires of individuals. He questions the motives behind a destitute poet's choice between purchasing a much-needed coat or indulging in a journey to Rockaway Beach, highlighting the struggle between practicality and the longing for adventure. This dilemma reflects a deeper yearning for experiences that transcend material needs, suggesting that adventure can be as valuable as provisions.

Melville further contemplates the innate desire to explore the sea, particularly among robust youth, emphasizing the allure of the unknown. The mystical experience of being out of sight of land symbolizes a profound transformation, evoking a sense of freedom and connection to a larger universe. The reverence the ancient Persians held for the sea underscores its significance as a source of life, mystery, and spirituality, echoing humanity's timeless fascination with the vast and unpredictable waters.