Starbucks wasn’t born out of a corporate blueprint—it was inspired by the sea. The very name “Starbucks” is a nod to Moby-Dick, Herman Melville’s epic novel of sailors, storms, and obsession. The brand’s founders, lovers of maritime lore, wanted to capture the romanticism of the sea and the spirit of exploration.
And so, when they needed a logo, they chose a siren—an ancient, mythical sea creature known for luring sailors with song. It was an unusual choice for a coffee brand, but somehow, it fit: powerful, intriguing, unforgettable.