A Man in the Zoo

"A Man in the Zoo" by David Garnett is a quirky story about a man named John who, feeling heartbroken and misunderstood, decides the best place for him is in the London Zoo. He proposes that he become an exhibit, a living example of humanity. The zoo director, intrigued by the idea and facing his own set of pressures, agrees to the unusual request. John's life as an exhibit starts, and it is filled with unexpected challenges, social commentary, and observations about human behavior from both sides of the cage. He experiences the absurdity of being watched, the loneliness of captivity, and the surprising connections he forms with both the animals and the people who visit him. The narrative blends humor and satire as it explores themes of freedom, love, and the nature of humanity, challenging the reader to consider if the zoo is really that different from the outside world.