Two Years Among the Savages of New Guinea.
With Introductory Notes on North Queensland.
"Two Years Among the Savages of New Guinea" by W. D. Pitcairn is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The narrative details the author’s adventures and experiences during his time spent in New Guinea as he explores the island and interacts with its indigenous peoples. The text promises insights into the society and customs of Papua New Guinea, along with the challenges and dangers faced by European explorers in this relatively uncharted territory. The opening of the work introduces the author’s predilection for adventure, as he first describes his inspiration to visit New Guinea and his preparatory period in Cooktown, North Queensland. Pitcairn recounts the atmosphere of preparation for his journey, his interactions with friends, the formidable challenges of navigating the waters toward New Guinea, and the vivid imagery of the landscapes he anticipates to encounter. As Pitcairn embarks on his voyage, the reader is given a glimpse of his musings about the land of "cannibals and savages," setting the stage for an exploration of cultural exchanges and the inherent dangers that await during his sojourn among the indigenous populations of New Guinea.