# II explained — To Cuba and Back

> Chapter companion for To Cuba and Back by Richard Henry Dana Jr..

## What happens

The narrator describes the routine and discipline aboard the steamer Cahawba, the crossing of the Gulf Stream, and the sighting of the Florida coast. Observations are made on the effects of slavery and despotism on Cuban children, and the beauty of tropical nights at sea is contrasted with the harsh realities of shipwrecks and the Gulf Stream's dangers.

## Themes in this chapter

### Slavery and Racial Hierarchy

The narrator speculates on how slavery and despotic institutions shape the character of Cuban children, linking social conditions to personal development.

### Travel as a Lens for Social Critique

The journey provides a platform for observing and critiquing the effects of climate, slavery, and political systems on individuals and society.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown Narrator

The narrator reflects on the ship's discipline, the passengers, and the Cuban children, expressing a sense of home on the Cahawba.

### Capt. Bullock

Mentioned as the commander of the Cahawba, praised for his quiet and effective discipline.

### Mr. Rodgers

The purser, noted for his friendly interactions with passengers and his naval family connections.

### Cubans

Creole children on board are observed, with commentary on the effects of climate and despotic institutions on their character.

## Key lines

> It is interesting to see, or to fancy we see the effect not only of climate, but of slavery and of despotic institutions, on the characters of children.

The narrator finds it intriguing to observe—or imagine—how both the tropical climate and oppressive systems like slavery influence the development of children.

_This observation ties the physical environment to social and political critique._

> What career is there for Cuban youth of ambition or merit? and what must be their life without one?

The narrator questions what opportunities exist for ambitious or talented young Cubans, and what a life devoid of such opportunities would be like.

_Highlights the limited prospects under colonial rule._

> There is something in the clear blue warm sea of the tropics, which gives to the stranger a feeling of unreality.

The tropical sea's beauty feels surreal to someone from a colder climate, creating a sense of disorientation.

_Emphasizes the contrast between the narrator's New England origins and the exotic tropics._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/to_cuba_and_back_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/to_cuba_and_back_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/to_cuba_and_back_se/chapters