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These lines (recited by an actor) begin the novel Moby Dick (1851), by Herman Melville. Regarded as one of the most important novels in American literature, Moby Dick tells the story of the pursuit of a great white whale named Moby Dick during a doomed whaling voyage. Both Ishmael (the narrator) and Ahab (the captain) seek knowledge, but while Ishmael learns about love and humanity, Ahab pursues vengeance with maniacal obsessiveness. Melville drew upon his rich nautical experience in writing his fiction, which is known for its symbolism and adventurous narrative.
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