
While trekking through the dense forests of western Africa, the narrator unexpectedly encounters a vast assembly of gorillas moving in unison. Their purpose becomes clear when a dignified, middle‑aged male steps onto a stump and begins a public lecture on sexual selection, the very theory that reshaped human ideas about evolution. Rendered into clear English, the gorilla's discourse is surprisingly erudite, blending scientific reference with the unique perspective of his species, and turning a routine expedition into a curious symposium.
The narrative balances scholarly curiosity with a light‑hearted, almost theatrical tone, inviting listeners to consider how primal instincts shape both animal and human societies. Through witty translation and gentle satire, the work holds up a mirror to humanity, suggesting that the same forces Darwin described play out in the lives of our closest relatives. Ideal for those who enjoy Victorian‑era scientific humor, it offers an entertaining yet thought‑provoking listening experience.
Full title
The Fall of Man; Or, The Loves of the Gorillas A Popular Scientific Lecture Upon the Darwinian Theory of Development by Sexual Selection
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (88K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by deaurider, Barry Abrahamsen, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2018-11-24
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1821–1885
A lively 19th-century American critic and essayist, remembered for his sharp literary opinions and deep fascination with Shakespeare. He also wrote about music, language, and everyday life in a way that still feels conversational.
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