My Life with the Chimpanzees

“You have to be patient if you want to learn about animals.”

Goodall uses the second person to directly address her reader. This creates emphasis, establishing this as one of the main takeaways of her memoir. Her advice emphasizes the necessity of time and observation in understanding animals, highlighting the contrast between human impatience and the natural world’s slow, deliberate rhythms. This theme is reinforced through the straightforward, didactic tone, which underscores the universal truth of patience as a virtue.

“It took me a long time before I could get close enough to the chimps to make good observations. At first, they were very shy. […] But it was worth it. Because, apart from the human animal, the chimpanzee is the most fascinating animal of all.”

The chimps’ initial shyness and the time it took to gain their trust underscore the dedication required for meaningful scientific observation. The use of the word “fascinating” conveys Goodall’s deep admiration and passion for chimpanzees, a driving force behind her groundbreaking studies. This passage also reflects her intrinsic motivation and the personal fulfillment she derives from her research.

“And then, quite suddenly, my school days were over. What would I do next? I only wanted to watch and write about animals. How could I get started? How could I make a living doing that?”

Goodall’s rhetorical questions reflect her internal struggle and determination, emphasizing the challenges of pursuing a passion that did not have a clear career path. The repetition of “How could I” reveals her uncertainty and the daunting nature of her aspirations. This moment of transition illustrates the crossroads between conventional expectations and following one’s true passion.

“As you looked out across the flattened, battered city, you could see the spire of Cologne Cathedral. It rose, quite undamaged, from the rubble of the surrounding buildings. To me, it seemed like a message from God, telling us that however bad things may seem, in the end, goodness will win.”

In this passage, the imagery of the Cologne Cathedral’s spire rising “quite undamaged” from the city’s rubble symbolizes hope and resilience. The contrast between the “flattened, battered city” and the intact cathedral highlights survival amidst destruction. This imagery conveys a message of enduring faith and divine protection, suggesting that goodness will ultimately triumph over adversity.

“I learned so much at that clinic. Ever since then, when things have gone wrong in my life, I remember how lucky I am to be healthy. I thank God for that, and I feel more determined to solve my problems or get over my sadness, or whatever.”

This passage emphasizes resilience through personal reflection and gratitude. The clinic experience highlights the importance of health and gratitude in overcoming adversity. The repeated “I” underscores personal growth and determination, while the mention of God adds a spiritual dimension, showing faith as a motivator in facing life’s challenges.

“What about my dream of Africa? Had I forgotten it? Absolutely not. I spent hours wandering about in the Natural History Museum. I continued to read books about animals, especially African animals.”

This passage emphasizes perseverance and passion. The rhetorical questions followed by the emphatic “Absolutely not” show firm resolve. The imagery of wandering in the museum and reading about African animals illustrates deep, sustained interest, highlighting how true dreams drive continuous learning and exploration.

“My first journey to Africa was by sea on a passenger liner, the Kenya Castle. I was twenty three years old. I should remember that wonderful voyage as long as I live.”

This passage highlights the significance of the narrator’s first journey to Africa. Specific details, like traveling on the Kenya Castle at 23, create a memorable image. The phrase “I should remember that wonderful voyage as long as I live” conveys lasting impact and emotional resonance, emphasizing adventure and personal growth.

“The South African towns of Cape Town and Durban were very beautiful. But I hated the practice of apartheid—the legal separation of blacks and whites. It was awful to see seats at the bus stop marked ‘Slegs Blancs’—Afrikaans for ‘Whites Only.’”

This passage contrasts the beauty of South African towns with the harsh reality of apartheid. The vivid description of Cape Town and Durban’s beauty juxtaposes with the narrator’s strong condemnation of apartheid, emphasizing the moral conflict. The use of specific details, like the “Slegs Blancs” signs, highlights the pervasive and visible nature of racial segregation.

“I always remember the first time I held in my hand the bone of a creature that had walked to earth millions of years before. I had dug it up myself.”

This passage conveys wonder and connection to the past. Goodall’s memory of holding an ancient bone highlights the awe of discovery. The phrase “walked the earth millions of years before” emphasizes the vast span of time, while “dug it up myself” underscores exploration and personal accomplishment.

“He told me that it didn’t matter about my lack of experience or my lack of a degree. He wanted to send someone who had a mind ‘uncluttered by theories,’ someone who would watch carefully and record accurately. He preferred someone who truly wanted to live among the apes and learn about their behavior to someone who simply wanted an academic degree.”

This quote employs direct speech and contrast to display the value of genuine curiosity and unbiased observation in scientific research. The preference for a mind “uncluttered by theories” contrasts with traditional academic expectations. This passage emphasizes The Intersection of Personal Passion and Scientific Inquiry, as well as Goodall’s values of authenticity and unconventional pathways to knowledge. It reflects the belief that true understanding comes from immersive, first-hand experience rather than solely academic pursuits.

“Everyone agreed that they are more like human beings than any other creature alive today. How lucky I was, I thought, to be going to study them for months and months in their own forest home.”

This quote uses anthropomorphism and a reflective tone to show the unique similarities between chimps and humans. The phrase “more like human beings than any other creature” emphasizes the species’ kinship, while the author’s reflection on her good fortune in studying the chimps reveals a sense of awe and excitement. This passage emphasizes connection and privilege, illustrating the author’s deep appreciation for the opportunity to explore the natural behaviors of such animals in their native habitat.

“I discovered that, most of the time, the chimps wandered about in small groups of six or less, not in a big troop like the baboons.”

This quote uses observational detail to highlight a significant behavioral difference between chimps and baboons. The comparison emphasizes the social structure of chimps, who prefer smaller, more intimate groups, contrasting with the larger troops of baboons. This distinction shows the social organization and behavior of different types of primates.

“During those months of gradual discovery, the chimps very slowly began to realize that I was not so frightening after all.”

This quote uses gradual progression and subtle shifts in perception to illustrate the developing trust between the author and the chimps. The phrase “months of gradual discovery” emphasizes the slow, patient process required to build this trust, while “very slowly began to realize” highlights the cautious nature of the chimps.

“So we decided that despite the big crocodiles in the river, we would risk it and wade across. After all, if God had allowed us to survive the crash, surely He would not allow crocodiles to eat us! And He didn’t!”

This quote uses irony and faith to highlight Goodall’s resilience and trust in divine protection. The decision to risk crossing a dangerous river shows her bravery and reliance on faith, while the ironic relief that “he didn’t” let crocodiles harm them adds a touch of humor. This passage emphasizes values like courage, faith, and divine intervention, illustrating how belief can inspire bold actions even in perilous situations.

“Flo died in 1972. It was a very sad day for me—I had known her for so long, and she had taught me so much. She died crossing the clear, fast-flowing Kakombe Stream. She looked so peaceful—it was as if her heart had suddenly just stopped beating. I looked down at my old friend, and I knew Gombe would never be quite the same without her.”

This quote uses emotive language, imagery, and anthropomorphism to convey profound loss. The serene description of Flo’s death contrasts with the Goodall’s sadness. The narrative reflects on Flo’s lasting impact, emphasizing the deep emotional connection between Goodall and the chimpanzees she studies. Flo is described in human-like terms, underlining Goodall’s belief that humans and animals are equals.

“Twenty years after her death, Flo’s descendants form the most powerful family at Gombe and by far the largest.”

This quote uses time progression and superlatives to emphasize Flo’s legacy at Gombe. Flo’s impact remains “[t]wenty years after her death.” This passage reflects the legacies and social structures within the chimpanzee community, illustrating how individual contributions have lasting effects on future generations.

“I have known the excitement of watching wild, free animals. Most people can’t have such experiences. They may not even want to. But they love to hear about my life in the wild, and in the telling, I try to explain just how amazing chimpanzees—and many other animals—really are.”

This quote contrasts the author’s thrilling experiences with the limited opportunities that others have. The narrative tone bridges the gap between personal adventure and public interest, highlighting Goodall’s interest in cultivating appreciation for chimpanzees and other animals. The author’s storytelling fosters wildlife conservation and awareness.

“When I was young, as I have said, I knew that, somehow, I would go to Africa and live with animals. And I wanted to write books about them. I don’t think I spent too much time wondering exactly how I would do it. I just felt sure the right opportunity would somehow come.”

This quote uses foreshadowing and a confident tone to depict the author’s early determination and passion. The repetition of “I” highlights personal resolve, while “I just felt sure” conveys unwavering confidence. This passage foreshadows Goodall’s achievements and emphasizes the theme of pursuing one’s dreams with faith and perseverance.

“I read books about animals, and I watched the birds and insects in the garden. When I worked in London I used to visit the Natural History Museum at least once a week, and I made notes about the things I saw there.”

This quote utilizes imagery and anaphora to depict Goodall’s engagement with the natural world. The repetitive structure beginning with “I” creates a rhythmic emphasis on her consistent dedication to observing and learning about nature. The imagery of watching “birds and insects in the garden” and visiting the Natural History Museum evokes curiosity and passion for discovery.

“Cruelty is a terrible thing. I believe it is the worst human sin. When you are cruel, you cause someone to suffer needlessly.”

This quote employs strong diction and moral absolutism to convey the severity of cruelty. The use of the word “terrible” and the phrase “worst human sin” emphasize the author’s condemnation of cruelty as an unforgivable act. The straightforward structure and direct language make the statement powerful and unambiguous, reinforcing empathy and the ethical imperative to avoid causing unnecessary suffering.

“It’s not only the farmers who cut down trees. Politicians sell huge areas of the forest timber companies because they need the money for their countries. Often, sadly, the politicians are not honest. A lot of the money, instead of helping the poor people, is stolen by the politicians.”

Goodall uses irony and juxtaposition to criticize political corruption. The juxtaposition of the politicians’ stated need for funds with their dishonest actions highlights the irony of their behavior—money meant to help the poor is diverted for personal gain. The straightforward, almost conversational tone underscores the betrayal of public trust, reinforcing the theme of corruption and its detrimental impact on both the environment and vulnerable populations. Knowing her young audience, Goodall is also careful here to discuss politics in the simplest terms to make the situation understandable.

“Human beings can do all sorts of wonderful and noble things—people even give their lives to help others. But human beings can also do the most terrible and evil and cruel things. We can be really good, or we can be really wicked.”

This quote employs juxtaposition and antithesis to highlight the dual nature of humanity. By contrasting “wonderful and noble things” with “terrible and evil and cruel things,” the author underscores the moral spectrum of human actions. The use of simple, direct language makes the contrast stark and impactful, emphasizing the theme of human potential for both good and evil. This dichotomy invites readers to reflect on their own moral choices and the broader implications of human behavior.

“How do we help make the world a better place for all the hurting, desperate people and animals? The only way is for each of us to do what we can in our own little neck of the woods.”

This quote uses rhetorical questions and colloquial language to engage the reader and convey a practical approach to global issues. The rhetorical question prompts readers to reflect on their role in addressing suffering, while the phrase “in our own little neck of the woods” employs a familiar idiom that emphasizes localized action.