Capt. Ahab Defends Controversial White Whale Research Expedition

Despite widespread international criticism, notorious whaler Captain Ahab has defended his upcoming expedition researching the famed white whale Moby Dick. In a press conference earlier today, Ahab strongly denied accusations that he intends to harvest white whale meat for food, instead claiming to be interested in their migratory habits, speech patterns and his own all-consuming desire for revenge after being “unlimbed of a leg” by the beast on a previous voyage.

Ahab has met with increased opposition from animal rights groups and even the UN, who have condemned his blatant disregard for international whaling bans. He responded to such criticisms again today, stating that the path to his fixed purpose is laid with iron rails, whereon his soul is grooved to run. “Towards thee I roll, thou all-destroying but unconquering whale; to the last I grapple with thee; from hell's heart I stab at thee; for hate's sake I spit my last breath at thee,” he added.

Editor's note: to celebrate the Melbourne Writers Festival, The Late Breaker will be posting literary-themed stories from 21st-30th August.