Big Apple Energizes the Soul

In the book Life Safari, Mick tells Jack that MaMa Gombe understands the energy of Africa. I believe that what Mick is trying to say to Jack is that MaMa Gombe loves the land and natural things about Africa and because she has been around so long she appreciates everything Africa has to offer. She understands what to do in certain situations and knows where the greatest spots are all around the continent. According to the book I would describe the energy of Africa as exciting, high-strung, and at times dangerous. Compared to my home state, the energy of Africa is similar but also very different. My home state is New York, and I wouldn't want to have another state be my hometown. New York's energy is high-strung as well, but in a different way. New York is always happening, there isn't a point from what I can remember, besides 9/11, where New York had just stopped moving. Whether it was snowing, raining, sun shining or even a blackout- New York is truly the city that never sleeps. In Africa the dangers are animals, not enough food/water, and a struggle for shelter. Meanwhile in New York, the dangers are other people, fast-paced movement for those who aren't used to it and those who have never taken a ride on the subway! When I think of New York's energy, it's almost indescribable. I see the lights of Times Square or Rockefeller City during Christmas time and an instant smile pops up on my face. In conclusion, I believe that I know exactly what Mick meant when he said to Jack that MaMa Gombe understands the "energy" of Africa, because I understand the energy of New York.