Billy Budd, voormarsgast

The detailed depiction of shipboard hierarchy and discipline feels authentic. I wonder what inspired Melville's insights into naval culture.

Billy's innocence and the harshness of naval law create a complex moral situation. How did others interpret the story's ending?

The novella feels so complete yet also leaves some questions open. I'm curious whether Melville intended it as a complete story or if he saw it as a work in progress.