[Moby Dick is] a text that cannot be contained by any geographic, disciplinary, or ideological boundaries. Yet, Daniel Herman has caught it . . . in simply one of the most imaginative, creative, and fascinating academic works I have read in years. . . . Herman’s fresh, invigorating arguments enlarge rather than restrict other possible readings. . . .It is a testament to Herman that his insights and creativity can expand an already seemingly saturated novel.