Thursday, September 16, 2010

Nemesis

Yesterday I began reading Herman Melville's Moby-Dick or, The Whale (1851). It has been on my must read list for quite some years now. Of course, I'd seen the most amazing film Moby Dick (John Huston, 1956) with Gregory Peck as Captain Ahab, several times during my lifetime, but had never found time to read the book. The film, which depicts the power of the surging ocean and of Ahab's emotions towards his nemesis the whale, still stands as one of my favourites. At this stage I've only read to page 46, but love Melville's description of why Ishmael is drawn to the sea. 'When I find myself growing grim about the mouth; whenever it is a damp, drizzly November in my soul; whenever I find myself involuntarily pausing before coffin warehouses, and bringing up the rear of every funeral I meet...I account it high time to get to sea as soon as I can' (p.3). His description of the barman at The Sprouter Inn appears apt as a 'withered old man, who, for their money, dearly sells the sailors deliriums and death' (p.15). I'm sure that this novel will feed into my own, which for the sake of having a working title is called 'The Flood' ~ my obsession with water continues! And, on that note, it was good to hear that Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kevin Rudd, leaving his nemesis behind, is visiting flood ravaged Pakistan today to gauge how Australia and the rest of the world can be of assistance.

2 comments:

  1. I have recently been lucky enough to be given a fresh start. In career, home and 'family', I am glad. Another Joy is the great deal I get out of reading this blog, it speaks to my higher self, thank you

    Lauren
    x

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  2. Aw thanks Lauren. I enjoy writing my blog and I'm glad that you enjoy reading it. I take it from your comment that you are settled in your new place and new job and that all is well? My little Buddha statue reminds me every day to stay in touch with my higher self. He looks so serene.

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