In Chapter 35, Ishmael is standing on the mast-head to keep lookout while admitting that “…I kept but sorry guard”(171) because he is too emerged into his thoughts. Reflecting back on early class discussions regarding the type of services the ocean provided for people— travel and a form of clarity, Melville demonstrates the impact the ocean has on Ishmael by diverting his attention from the job in front of him to being drowned in a state of reflection while simultaneously being distracted.

During this state of mind, Ishmael reflects on the young philosophers who lack interest and ambition while whaling and then continues to emphasize the importance of not been distracted while observing “But while this sleep, this dream is on ye, move your foot or hand an inch, slip your hold at all; and your identity comes back in horror.”(173) Ishmael seems to realize the influence he has on his own life—the delicacy of life while on the boat.