People of the Whale

The ocean is a multifaceted symbol. As a source of sustenance, it represents life. Its dual nature, which embodies both danger and sanctuary, reflects the dual nature of life itself. Its changing moods mirror the emotional landscapes of the characters, serving as a backdrop to their struggles, transformations, and journeys of self-discovery. It’s a place of reflection for Thomas, who seeks solace in its depths, and a source of livelihood for Ruth and her community.

As a physical setting, it concretizes the connection between the characters and their environment. Its presence is a constant in the lives of the characters, influencing their daily activities, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. Because of its unpredictability and depth, the ocean represents spirituality and the vast, often unfathomable mysteries of nature and existence. Because of these associations, the ocean also has symbolic weight within the psychological journey of healing. It captures in a physical form the complex and often perilous process of confronting and reconciling with one’s past traumas and cultural disconnections. Accordingly, the characters’ psychological and spiritual journeys are inextricable from their physical interactions with the ocean. The ocean is a physical space where pivotal events occur, such as Marco’s tragic death during the whale hunt and Thomas’s transformative underwater experiences.