Rating: 
Summary: A gripping classic on the high seas
Review: Opening with the famous line "Call me Ishmael", so begins this classic tale of one man's obsession with a noble, beautiful, yet highly intimidating beast of the seas, the white sperm whale Moby Dick. Set in the 1850's, this story tells of Captain Ahab and his passionate quest to get his revenge on the whale which severed his leg on a past sea-voyage. The story is told by Ishmael, who along with his newly-found friend Queequeg, embark on this most fateful journey. This book really expresses the heart and soul of men who spend many years of their lives away from their loved families and friends to pursue and kill the proud sperm whales of the deep blue. When reading Melville's description of life at sea, you really get a feeling of a sad dignity to the whaleman's life as he travels the globe. This novel isn't so much about a whale, but about one man's intense sorrow and desire for vengence and the lengths to which he'll go to acheive his victory over a foe which seems almost to exist solely to torment him. It's a book rich with commentary on the depths of one's soul. Although this story is told by Ishmael, much of it is written more by an omniscient narrator. Certainly, there are many scenes which are described in detailed which Ishmael's character certainly couldn't have been present for. In fact, Ishmael himself hardly seems to play much of a role in the events within the novel. But, he does spend many chapters describing the sperm whale, such as it's dimensions, eating and travelling patterns, the various goods its body produces, etc. He speaks of this so much at certain points it's almost a little too much. But, he gives wonderful details which suggest Melville really did some in-depth research for this novel. I can certainly see why this is a classic. It's so very well-written and reading it made me wish so much I had this type of literary talent. The descriptive language is very beautiful. The characters all seem so real, particularly Captain Ahab, who's seems to be burdened with a good nature, but heavy heart. Although the novel may seem a little slow or long at some points and the lengthy description of the Sperm Whale can become tedious, it's well worth wading through these low points to enjoy this wonderful tale. I think this is really a great book and certainly worth reading.
Rating: 
Summary: A complex adventure tale!
Review: The story of Moby Dick, the elusive whale, and Captain Ahab's constant quest for him is one that has been around for a long time, and it has been assimilated into our culture. The book is more than just a quest after a big whale. It is a complex tale that Melville brings a number of disparate elements to. It is an adventure romance, an epic quest. A Faustian bargain and a psychological tale which delves into the mind of Captain Ahab. We see how this quest affects his mental stability, and we see to what extent he will go to achieve his goal. I did find the novel rather long though. Perhaps there was too much moralizing and philosophizing. But it is still an important novel, and should be included in the list of classic literature that should be read.
Rating:
Summary: The Great American Novel has been written, and this is it
Review: This book, quite simply, is the greatest American novel ever written, and a contender for the greatest novel ever written. I defy anyone to read just the first chapter "Loomings" and not be caught up with the book's incredibly profound meaning, which is already evident there in the first 3 pages. Truly a masterpiece and worth every bit of fame it has.
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