A LONELY JOURNEY, THE FOREST
Sierra Leone 1993.
Who was involved?: Ishmael.
When did the event happen?: The event happened in August 1993, it lasted for around a month.
Where did the event happen?: In the forest nearby Yele in the Bonthe district in the southern region of Sierra Leone.
What happened?: During his journey Ishmael got lost in the forest and is trying to survive this environment, he continues with it until he reaches his destination or at least understands his current location.
Why did it happen?: This happens because Ishmael was trying to reach Bonthe (an island in the south of Sierra Leone, one of the safest places at that time). He had to cut across the woods but had no idea of how to do it so he got lost. Ishmael needed to adapt to this new environment.
THIRD MOST IMPORTANT CHAPTER
We decided to rank the time Ishmael spent in the forest as the third most important event in the novel because it is when we realize how truly lonely Ishmael is. This event represents a significant change in the novel because even though he has been suffering war, Ishmael was always accompanied and supported by the other boys. Now that he has no company, he must continue the journey and face all the challenges the war brings to his life on his own, in contrast to the times he had his brother and friends around. In order to survive, Ishmael has to get used to isolation and to the harsh environment, what helps him become stronger and tougher, but also aggravates his desperation and affliction. Ishmael’s well being is deeply affected, both physically and psychologically, causing him greater pain, anguish and confusion.