Narrative: Mormon makes certain that we know that Nephi went to the land northward, and that he was unsuccessful. Once again the historical accuracy of this information is not as compelling a reason for inclusion as is Mormon’s intent in writing his text. For Mormon, it is important to continue to place a focus on the land northward, and to continue to see that location as a place where there is no reception of the gospel. This northward connection to non-believers becomes important to Mormon when he describes the events of his own time.
When he returns, he returns to the “land of his nativity,” which is the land of Zarahemla.