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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Papillon summary
Henri Charriere
Brief summary
Papillon is a captivating memoir by Henri Charrière, detailing his daring escape from the notorious Devil's Island prison in French Guiana. It's a thrilling and inspiring true story of resilience and the human spirit.
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Papillon
Summary of key ideas
Surviving the Unsurvivable
In Papillon by Henri Charrière, we are introduced to the protagonist, Henri Charrière, a Frenchman who is wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment in the penal colony of French Guiana. The story begins with his arrival at the notorious prison, where he is immediately confronted with the harsh reality of his new life. The conditions are inhumane, and the guards are brutal, but Charrière is determined to survive.
Charrière quickly earns the nickname 'Papillon' (French for butterfly) due to a large tattoo of a butterfly on his chest. He befriends a fellow prisoner, Louis Dega, a counterfeiter, and the two form a close bond. Dega, being a man of means, helps Papillon navigate the treacherous prison life, and in return, Papillon offers him protection.
Escape Attempts and Unyielding Spirit
Despite the high-security measures, Papillon makes several daring escape attempts. His first attempt involves a raft, which fails, leading to a brutal punishment. Undeterred, he continues to plan his escape, and with Dega's financial help, he manages to bribe a few guards and make his second attempt. This time, he succeeds in reaching the mainland, only to be captured and returned to the prison.
His unyielding spirit and determination to regain his freedom keep him going. He endures solitary confinement, hunger strikes, and brutal punishments, but nothing can break his resolve. He continues to plan his escape, and with each failure, he learns and adapts, becoming more cautious and resourceful.
Devil's Island and Final Escape
After several years, Papillon is transferred to the infamous Devil's Island, a place from which no one has ever escaped. The conditions here are even more severe, and the chances of survival are slim. However, Papillon refuses to accept his fate and continues to plot his final escape.
His opportunity comes when he is assigned to work on a nearby leper colony. He seizes the chance and, along with two fellow prisoners, makes a daring escape on a makeshift raft. They endure a perilous journey through shark-infested waters and hostile territories, but their determination pays off, and they finally reach freedom in Venezuela.
Freedom and Redemption
After thirteen years of imprisonment, Papillon finally tastes freedom. He starts a new life in Venezuela, marries, and becomes a successful businessman. However, his longing for justice remains unfulfilled. He continues to assert his innocence and seeks a pardon from the French government, but his pleas are repeatedly denied.
In the end, Papillon is not just a story of survival and escape but also a tale of resilience and the unbreakable human spirit. Despite enduring unimaginable hardships, Papillon never loses hope and remains determined to reclaim his freedom. His story serves as a testament to the power of the human will and the enduring quest for justice.
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What is Papillon about?
Papillon is a captivating memoir by Henri Charrière, recounting his daring escape from the brutal penal colony of Devil's Island in French Guiana. With vivid detail and unwavering determination, Charrière takes us on an unforgettable journey through the harsh realities of imprisonment and his relentless pursuit of freedom.
Papillon Review
Papillon (1969) is a gripping memoir that takes readers on an extraordinary journey of escape and survival. Here are three reasons why this book is worth reading:
- With unforgettable adventures and daring escape attempts, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats, never knowing what will happen next.
- It provides a raw and honest portrayal of prison life and the will to survive, offering a glimpse into the resilience of the human spirit.
- Vividly capturing the author's determination and strong sense of justice, this book inspires readers to push beyond their limits and fight for what is right.
Who should read Papillon?
- Readers who enjoy true stories of survival and human resilience
- Those interested in exploring the harsh realities of the French penal system in the mid-20th century
- Individuals who appreciate vivid and detailed accounts of personal experiences
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Papillon FAQs
What is the main message of Papillon?
The main message of Papillon is the indomitable spirit of freedom and the pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.
How long does it take to read Papillon?
The reading time for Papillon varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Papillon a good book? Is it worth reading?
Papillon is a gripping read that takes you on a thrilling journey. It's definitely worth experiencing for its memorable characters and thought-provoking themes.
Who is the author of Papillon?
The author of Papillon is Henri Charriere.
What to read after Papillon?
If you're wondering what to read next after Papillon, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi
- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
- Getting to Yes by Roger Fisher, William Ury & Bruce Patton
- Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill