Melville Calling Whales Fish

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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04-01-2025

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Herman Melville's Moby Dick, a cornerstone of American literature, is renowned for its rich prose and intricate exploration of human nature. However, a seemingly minor detail often slips under the radar: Melville's frequent and deliberate use of the term "fish" to describe whales. This seemingly simple choice reveals a complex interplay of scientific understanding, cultural perception, and literary artistry within the novel.

The Scientific Accuracy (or Lack Thereof)

From a purely scientific perspective, calling whales "fish" is inaccurate. Whales are marine mammals, belonging to the class Mammalia, distinct from fish (class Pisces). They breathe air, give birth to live young, and nurse their offspring. These characteristics fundamentally separate them from fish, which are cold-blooded, breathe through gills, and lay eggs.

Melville, writing in the 19th century, was working with the limited scientific knowledge of his time. While some naturalists were beginning to understand the differences between mammals and fish, the general public's understanding was less precise. The common vernacular often grouped whales, dolphins, and other cetaceans under the umbrella term "fish," a linguistic habit Melville frequently reflects in his writing.

The Cultural Context

The imprecise classification of whales as fish extended beyond mere scientific ignorance. Societal perception played a significant role. Whales were primarily viewed through the lens of their economic value – a valuable resource for oil, bone, and other products. This practical focus overshadowed more nuanced biological classifications. Referencing them as "fish," therefore, served a utilitarian purpose within the narrative.

Melville's Literary Choice: Intentional or Inadvertent?

While the prevalent understanding of the time might explain Melville's language, it's crucial to consider the intentional use of the term within the novel's overarching themes. The blurring of the lines between whale and fish mirrors the novel's exploration of ambiguity and the challenging nature of categorisation. The monumental size and power of the whale itself could be said to transcend conventional classification, mirroring Ahab's own obsessive pursuit, which transcends reason and logic.

By employing the term "fish", Melville simultaneously reflects the prevailing societal and scientific understanding while subtly hinting at the complex, elusive nature of his subject matter. The imprecise terminology thus adds a layer of depth to the novel’s exploration of obsession, revenge, and the human struggle against the immensity of nature.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Linguistic Ambiguity

Melville's use of "fish" to describe whales in Moby Dick is more than a simple linguistic error. It's a calculated choice reflecting the scientific and cultural context of his era, cleverly woven into the novel's broader narrative, adding another dimension to its timeless appeal and enduring legacy. The seemingly simple word choice serves as a reminder that even the seemingly mundane aspects of language can reveal deeper meanings and contextual nuances within a great work of literature.