"Therefore, though I am but ill qualified for a pioneer, in the application of these two semi-sciences to the whale, I will do my endeavor. I try all things; I achieve what I can."
Musing: How much better off would I be if I took heed of the lines above rather than reverse them. I try only what I am (pretty sure) I can achieve. To fail would be - what - a failure. It is sometimes in the simple moments of this book where the impact is felt. How easy it sounds to try everything and be content with what can be achieved.