The speaker shot the zebra because he was trophy hunting.
2. The speaker feels regret immediately after shooting the zebra. He describes himself as "feeling a sharp pang of regret" and "wishing that the moment of death could have been less brutal".
3. Upon return, the speaker sees the zebra's "mangled and decayed" body with "swarms of flies."
4. The speaker learns that "life is precious" and animals are more than just targets.
5. The last statement implies a newfound understanding that animals aren't mere sport but possess value in life and death.
6. The speaker described the stallion's actions to highlight the zebra's nobility and dignity, emphasizing its capacity for love and compassion. I agree; animals exhibit emotions and are not mere objects.
7. No, I would not act similarly; animals should be respected, not hunted for sport. All living beings deserve the right to life, and we must preserve the natural world.
8. Wild animals benefit us by providing food, shelter, regulating the environment, and offering recreation and beauty.
9. Yes, I have engaged in activities I later disagreed with, like consuming meat from restaurants mistreating animals. Afterward, I resolve to research and make choices aligned with my values.
10. To help endangered species, we can donate to conservation groups, support sustainability, and raise awareness about protecting biodiversity.
So, the speaker in the "under the african sun" shot at one of the zebras because he wanted to prove his manhood and skill as a hunter. He was also influenced by the stories he had heard about the dangers of zebras and the excitement of the hunt.
Immediately after shooting the zebra, the speaker felt a mixture of emotions, including guilt, shame, and regret. He realized that he had killed a beautiful and innocent creature, and he questioned the need for hunting.
Hence, on his return, the speaker noticed that the place where he had shot the zebra was still and silent. The other zebras had fled, and the only sound was the wind rustling through the trees.