Typee Freedom & Confinement Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

I was aware that he entertained a cordial detestation of the ship, and believed that, should a fair chance of escape present itself, he would embrace it willingly. (5.12)

Part of confinement can be a limitation of communication. On the ship, Toby and Tommo can't really talk freely, and ditto in the valley. They're constantly having to whisper and scheme. It really makes you appreciate "freedom of speech"—just being able to talk, and be understood, in your everyday life.

Quote #5

But it will be no use talking to you, for go you will, that I see plainly; so all I have to say is, that you need not blame me if the islanders make a meal of you. You may stand some chance of escaping them though, if you keep close about the French encampment—and are back to the ship again before sunset. (6.2)

Fearmongering is a common instrument of control and confinement. (Don't take our word for it, though.)

Quote #6

For my own part, I scarcely knew whether I was helplessly falling from the heights above, or whether the fearful rapidity with which I descended was an act of my own volition. (8.15)

This really interestingly mirrors Tommo's first few weeks of captivity with the Typee. He's meaning to stay there, until he isn't.