To the Gold Coast for Gold A Personal Narrative in Two Volumes.—Volume I   By: Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890)

"To the Gold Coast for Gold" by Richard Francis Burton is a captivating personal narrative that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the uncharted lands of West Africa during the mid-19th century. This first volume of the two-part series unveils the adventurous spirit and remarkable courage of the author as he sets out on a perilous expedition in search of valuable natural resources.

Burton's writing style is both engaging and educational, providing readers with intricate details about the landscapes, cultures, and customs of the African tribes he encounters during his travels. His observations and interactions with the local people offer a profound insight into the complexities and richness of African societies, challenging prevalent stereotypes and misconceptions prevalent at the time.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this narrative is Burton's ability to immerse his readers in the wild and untamed environment of West Africa. He vividly describes the treacherous terrains, dense jungles, and exotic wildlife, painting a picture so vivid that readers can almost feel the oppressive heat and hear the sounds of the tropical wilderness. This meticulous attention to detail transports readers directly into the heart of the journey, making the reading experience both engaging and immersive.

Furthermore, Burton's inclusion of meticulous maps, diagrams, and engravings greatly enhances the reader's understanding of the geographical aspects of his adventure. These visual aids not only provide clarity to the narrative but also enable readers to follow his expedition step by step, enhancing their overall comprehension and appreciation of the challenges faced by Burton and his crew.

While the narrative primarily focuses on the author's exploration and pursuit of wealth, it also touches on broader themes such as the impact of colonialism, the slave trade, and the clash of civilizations. Burton's honest and introspective reflections on these issues force readers to confront the dark realities that marred Africa's history, making this book not just a thrilling adventure but also an important historical document.

Although Burton's narrative is undeniably captivating, it is worth noting that his writing occasionally veers into the esoteric, employing complex language and outdated Victorian prose that may present a challenge for some modern readers. However, his attention to detail and vast knowledge of the subject matter are undeniable, compensating for any potential stylistic hurdles.

Overall, "To the Gold Coast for Gold" Volume I is a riveting personal narrative that offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Africa during an era of exploration and exploitation. Richard Francis Burton's raw and unfiltered account of his expedition combines excitement, historical significance, and thought-provoking reflections, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the tantalizing mysteries of the African continent.

First Page:

In several countries, for instance, Dinkira, Tueful, Wásá (Wassaw), and especially Akim, the hill region lying north of Accra, the people are still active in digging gold. The pits, varying from two to three feet in diameter, and from twelve to fifty deep (eighty feet is the extreme), are often so near the roads that loss of life has been the result. 'Shoring up' being little known, the miners are not unfrequently buried alive. The stuff is drawn up by ropes in clay pots, or calabashes, and thus a workman at the bottom widens the pit to a pyriform shape; tunnelling, however, is unknown. The excavated earth is carried down to be washed. Besides sinking these holes, they pan in the beds of rivers, and in places collect quartz, which is roughly pounded... Continue reading book >>