Part 2, Travels 1971-1986: Chapters 6-10 Summary and Analysis

In chapter six, in 1975, Crichton and his girlfriend Loren travel to Kenya to stay at Craig Farm, a private nature reserve. Crichton wants to walk among the animals, something that is prohibited on government operated preserves. Crichton fancies himself as being a primitive hunter and wants to know how that feels. Animals have an invisible perimeter around themselves and always seem to know when humans are near.

Crichton and Loren camp for the night. Loren is an experienced camper while Crichton is not. Crichton's imagination runs wild while Loren sleeps. Crichton is especially distressed when he realizes that he has to pee. There is no way around going outside. Crichton hears noises and quickly becomes convinced that there is an elephant just outside the tent, ready to attack. Loren hears nothing. Neither sees...