Letters/Chapter One

So I began reading and can't help but notice some of the book is hard to follow. After reading the letters, I find out that Captain Walton is writing to his sister and saying that he is going to leave for the North Pole, a place not yet seen. I can't help but wonder; why the North Pole? The only conclusion I can think of is that he really just wants to be loved by people, and be known by them. Therefore, part of me feels sorry for him, because he is just seeking attention and knowledge. Did anyone else think this over as well? If so, did you think it was for the same reason?