Critical Analysis of Leiningen vs. the Ants
Critical Analysis of Leiningen vs. the Ants
Ambitions, dreams, conquering obstacles, whatever it is in life, they can all be achievable if one focuses, be determined, and believes positively in him/herself. The steps taken toward this positive attitude is to look at the goal to be achieved, what the fears and obstacles may be, and turn those into positive challenges. Unfortunately, one of the major flaws we (humans) in society face when first encountering a goal is being pessimistic. We seem to think of ourselves incompetent of leaping through obstacles or prevailing over the goal. Michael Jordan once stated, “Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it or work around it.” This is a inspirational quote that people can turn to when in despair of not succeeding. In his short story, “Leiningen vs. the Ants”, Carl Stephenson illustrates that in order for one to prevail, they must have a determined, positive attitude (without being too overconfident) and constantly remind themselves of their power and capabilities.
Leningen, a plantation owner, is an overconfident man who believes that nothing, not even elements-“act of God” can intimidate or defeat him. He boastfully states, “I’m not going to run from it just because an elemental’s on the way….When I began this model farm plantation three years ago, I took into account all that could conceivably happen to it. And now I’m ready for anything and everything-including your ants” (4). Not even the Brazilian official’s thought-provoking words would make him think twice of his actions. From his experience, Leinigen confidently felt that these ants were probably no different from the other elementals.
“During his three years as a planter, Leningen had met and defeated drought, flood, plague, and all other “acts of God” which had come against him-unlike his fellow settlers in the districts, who had made little or no resistance….His brain had triumphed over every difficulty and danger it had so far encountered. And now he was sure he would prove more than a match for the “irresistible” ants” (4).
In this quotation we can sense that Leiningen is a pugnacious fighter, assiduous worker, and wise in his decision-making through all his successful victories. In addition, I feel that he is a boastful person and capable in defeating anything and anyone.
The ten-mile long,...