Through Central Borneo; an Account of Two Years' Travel in the Land of Head-Hunters Between the Years 1913 and 1917   By: Carl Lumholtz (1851-1922)

Through Central Borneo; an Account of Two Years' Travel in the Land of Head-Hunters Between the Years 1913 and 1917 by Carl Lumholtz is a captivating and adventurous journey into the heart of the mysterious and enchanting island of Borneo.

Lumholtz, a Norwegian explorer, takes readers on an exhilarating expedition through the rugged landscapes and dense jungles of Central Borneo. The book offers a unique perspective on a region largely unknown to the Western world at the time, giving readers a rare glimpse into the lives and customs of the indigenous tribes and headhunters.

From the very beginning, Lumholtz's vivid and detailed descriptions transport readers into the heart of Borneo. His passion for exploration and anthropology shines through every page, making the book not only a thrilling adventure but also an insightful anthropological study. Through Lumholtz's encounters with different tribes, we get to see their way of life, their rituals, and their beliefs, all meticulously documented and analyzed.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Lumholtz's ability to create a strong sense of place. His lyrical prose immerses readers into the vibrant atmosphere of the rainforests, with its exotic flora and fauna. Moreover, he effortlessly captures the beauty and dangers of Borneo's untouched nature, creating a vivid image of a land as stunning as it is treacherous.

Lumholtz's encounters with the headhunters, a famously feared tribe, bring an element of danger and excitement to the narrative. He delves into the intriguing history and customs surrounding headhunting, dispelling some of the myths and misconceptions while revealing the complexities of this unique practice. With his respectful and open-minded approach, Lumholtz offers readers a nuanced understanding of a culture that has long been sensationalized and misunderstood.

The book is not without its flaws, however. At times, the narrative can become repetitive, with Lumholtz providing extensive detail about similar encounters with different tribes. Additionally, the pacing of the book can be slow, as Lumholtz occasionally spends too much time on minute details that may not be of interest to every reader.

Nevertheless, Through Central Borneo remains a valuable and significant piece of travel literature. Lumholtz's dedication to exploring and documenting the rich cultural and natural diversity of Borneo is commendable. His insightful observations and genuine respect for the people he encounters make this book more than just an adventure tale; it becomes a bridge between two worlds.

In conclusion, Through Central Borneo; an Account of Two Years' Travel in the Land of Head-Hunters Between the Years 1913 and 1917 by Carl Lumholtz is an immersive and enlightening journey through the heart of Borneo. With its vivid descriptions, insightful observations, and a captivating narrative, it is an essential read for anyone interested in the exploration of unknown lands and understanding the intricacies of different cultures.

First Page:

Ever since my camping life with the aborigines of Queensland, many years ago, it has been my desire to explore New Guinea, the promised land of all who are fond of nature and ambitious to discover fresh secrets. In furtherance of this purpose their Majesties, the King and Queen of Norway, the Norwegian Geographical Society, the Royal Geographical Society of London, and Koninklijk Nederlandsch Aardrijkskundig Genootschap, generously assisted me with grants, thus facilitating my efforts to raise the necessary funds. Subscriptions were received in Norway, also from American and English friends, and after purchasing the principal part of my outfit in London, I departed for New York in the autumn of 1913, en route for the Dutch Indies. In 1914, having first paid a visit to the Bulungan, in northeast Borneo, in order to engage the necessary Dayaks, I was preparing to start for Dutch New Guinea when the war broke out... Continue reading book >>