As the Pequod enters the “sweet mystery” of the Pacific Ocean, Ishmael understands why most seamen find serenity in these vast waters. That is not the case with Ahab. His purpose intensifies as he prepares for the meeting with the White Whale. The captain asks his blacksmith, Perth, to shape him an especially powerful harpoon. We learn the tragic history of Perth’s background and witness a demonic baptism of Ahab’s new weapon.
