Jane Goodall, the famous primatologist, often reflects on how the “Tarzan” stories shaped her dreams. Growing up, she was captivated by Edgar Rice Burroughs’ 1912 classic, “Tarzan of the Apes.” This book sparked her imagination and laid the groundwork for her remarkable career in anthropology.
Goodall frequently shares how she fell in love with the idea of Tarzan, saying, “my Tarzan was the Tarzan of my imagination.” This sentiment highlights how stories can deeply influence our paths. Despite the Disney film “Tarzan” coming out in 1999, Goodall’s passion for the story began long before that.
She humorously mentioned in her talks that at ten years old, she was “madly in love” with Tarzan and joked about him marrying the “wrong” Jane, referring to Jane Porter, the story’s main female character. Goodall admired Tarzan’s adventurous spirit and often daydreamed about living in the jungle with him.
In her book, Reason for Hope: A Spiritual Journey, she wrote, “It was daydreaming about life in the forest with Tarzan that led to my determination to go to Africa.” Her love for animals and nature drove her to explore and study these subjects, ultimately shaping her legacy as a leading conservationist.
This passion reflects a broader trend where literature inspires life choices. Surveys show that about 55% of people read fiction for escapism and inspiration. Stories can motivate us to pursue dreams, just as Tarzan inspired Goodall.
Additionally, Goodall’s experience demonstrates how fictional characters can resonate with personal ambitions. Her journey reminds us of the power stories hold in shaping our lives and careers.
For more on Goodall’s remarkable life and contributions, you can check out this detailed overview from the Jane Goodall Institute.
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