This Simian World



Subject

In This Simian World Clarence Day discusses the qualities and characteristics of the simian that have allowed him to take control of the world and hold onto that control. He offers different scenarios of how the world would be if different species controlled the world. He outlines their characteristics as well, and relates those characteristics to the reason why they are not the species that dominate the world.

Speaker

The speaker of this book is Clarence Day. He is among the many people who believe in evolution and the scientific way of life. He seems to have an interest in the behavioral aspects of things, and how that affects them as a whole. “I thought this over for awhile, to get in tough with his attitude.” This statement supports the fact that Day is the kind of person who is open to many ideas, and is willing to give them thought.

Occasion

This Simian World was published in 1920 in America. There was a considerable amount of controversy concerning the topic of evolution and the idea that humans descended from simians. One day Clarence Day begins discussing with an associate the possibilities of different species ruling the earth, and which of their characteristics made it even thinkable. “So Potter and I, developing this train of thought, began to imagine we had lived many years ago, and somehow or other had alighted here from some other planet.” They envision going back in time and coming to earth, and they discuss what species would be a possible candidate to become ruler. This lay the foundation for the writing of this book.

Audience

Day wrote the book, for anyone to read. It does not seem as though he had a specific audience in mind. However, due to the satirical tone of the book, he might have intended the book to be read by those who would appreciate the sarcasm and irony that he exhibits.

Purpose

Day wanted people to understand and realize why the world is the way it is. He wanted them to understand that they should...