# II: My First Plane explained — “We”

> Chapter companion for “We” by Charles A. Lindbergh.

## What happens

Charles Lindbergh recounts his purchase of a surplus Curtiss Jenny for $500, his first solo flight, and his early cross-country flying experiences, including barnstorming in Mississippi.

## Themes in this chapter

### Pioneering Spirit and Aviation

Lindbergh's purchase of his first plane and his determination to fly solo exemplify the pioneering spirit of early aviation.

### Risk, Sacrifice, and Perseverance

Lindbergh's risky first solo takeoff, his emergency landing in Meridian, and his persistence in learning to fly despite limited funds highlight these themes.

### Youth and Idealism

Lindbergh's youthful ambition to own a plane and his idealistic confidence in his Jenny reflect the optimism of a young aviator.

## Character check-ins

### Charles Lindbergh

Narrator and protagonist; buys his first plane, takes his first solo flight, and begins barnstorming.

### H. J. Lynch

Lindbergh flew with Lynch in Montana before buying his own plane.

### Reese

Visits Lindbergh at Americus; they exchange flying experiences and Reese advises on looping.

### E. G. Bahl

Lindbergh flew with Bahl during his early cross-country trips and witnessed loops and tailspins.

## Key lines

> I bought one of these ships with a new Curtiss OX-5 motor and full equipment for five hundred dollars.

Lindbergh purchased a surplus Jenny with a new engine and full gear for $500.

_Describes the acquisition of his first plane._

> The first solo flight is one of the events in a pilot's life which forever remains impressed on his memory.

A pilot's first solo flight is an unforgettable milestone.

_Reflects on the significance of soloing._

> I had extracted promises from half a dozen citizens to ride at five dollars each.

Lindbergh got six locals to agree to pay $5 each for a ride.

_Shows his barnstorming business model._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/we_2_se/chapters/ii-my-first-plane
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/we_2_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/we_2_se/chapters