How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Without their ship to protect them, the hunters had become the prey. (7.44)
This would be like SpongeBob Squarepants trying to take on the Incredible Hulk. Or, to put it simply: "Whale SMASH!"
Quote #8
But when Chase attempted to stab the [shark], he discovered that he did not have the strength even to dent its sandpaper-like skin. (10.28)
In the end, the crew of the Essex becomes so weak that they can't commit violence if they want to. This must be a hopeless feeling, especially for such world-weary warriors. Still, you know what they say—those who live by the harpoon, die by the harpoon.
Quote #9
There is [...] evidence to indicated that even if Chase was not motivated [...] to [...] kill the whale that had sunk the Essex, other whalemen said he was. (14.28)
In case you didn't realize it, this story provides the basis for Moby-Dick, one of the most famous American novels of all time. While Chase might not be seeking Ahab-levels of vengeance, the man is deeply shaken by the fact that his ship was destroyed by an angry whale.