- description
- # CHAPTER XXXVIII.
## Overview
This is chapter XXXVIII of the novel *Mardi: And a Voyage Thither*. It was extracted from the file `mardi_vol1.txt` and is part of the larger collection *Melville Complete Works*. The chapter is titled "The Sea On Fire" and spans from line 4284 to line 4419 of the source text.
## Context
This chapter is situated within the narrative of *Mardi: And a Voyage Thither*, a novel by Herman Melville. It follows Chapter XXXVII, "Once More They Take To The Chamois," and precedes Chapter XXXIX, "They Fall In With Strangers." The chapter was extracted from a digital file named `mardi_vol1.txt`, which is part of the curated collection *Melville Complete Works*.
## Contents
Chapter XXXVIII, "The Sea On Fire," describes a remarkable nocturnal spectacle observed by the characters. The ocean is illuminated with a phosphorescent glow, described as a "pallid white color, corruscating all over with tiny golden sparkles." The narrative details the appearance of numerous luminous jellyfish and the presence of a large shoal of sperm whales, whose spoutings create fountains of fire. The characters witness the whales interacting with the phosphorescent sea, noting the unique radiance of their vapor jets and the luminous trails left by their movements. The chapter also includes a discussion of various scientific and anecdotal theories regarding the causes of marine phosphorescence, touching upon electrical conditions, decaying organic matter, and the bioluminescence of marine life. The phenomenon gradually fades over several hours.
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- CHAPTER XXXVIII.
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- CHAPTER XXXVIII.