Come On Shore and We Will Kill and Eat You All summary

Unexpected Encounters and Cultural Clashes

In Come On Shore and We Will Kill and Eat You All: A New Zealand Story, Christina Thompson takes us on an exploration of the cultural collision between the Europeans and the Maoris of New Zealand. The title of the book is derived from a phrase supposedly spoken by the Maoris on their first encounter with Captain Cook and his crew, a phrase that served as a stark reminder of the deep division between the two cultures.

Thompson begins her narrative with her personal story, recounting her chance meeting with Seven, a young Maori man, while studying at the University of Auckland. Their romance blossoms amidst the backdrop of New Zealand's diverse cultural landscape, and the couple soon embarks on a journey that is as much about their relationship as it is about the collision of two vastly different worlds.

Exploring the History of Cultural Encounters

Interspersed with her personal narrative, Thompson delves into the history of European exploration and colonization of the South Pacific. She discusses the voyages of Captain Cook, the early interactions between Europeans and Maoris, and the subsequent arrival of Christian missionaries, whose influence further deepened the cultural divide. Thompson's exploration of these historical events serves to highlight the complexities and consequences of cultural encounters.

As her relationship with Seven deepens, Thompson becomes increasingly aware of the cultural differences that separate them. She observes the traditional Maori rituals and customs, and in doing so, gains a deeper understanding of Seven's identity and heritage. However, she also realizes the challenges of reconciling these traditions with the demands of modern life, a struggle that Seven and his people face daily.

The Complexities of Cultural Identity

Thompson's journey takes an unexpected turn when she becomes pregnant with Seven's child. The impending arrival of their mixed-race baby forces the couple to confront the complexities of their cultural identities. They grapple with questions of heritage, belonging, and the challenges their child might face growing up in a world that often struggles to understand or accept cultural diversity.

As they navigate the uncharted waters of parenthood, Thompson and Seven find themselves re-examining their own identities and their place in the world. Their shared experiences, as well as their differences, become a source of strength, enabling them to navigate the challenges of cultural assimilation and preservation.

A Journey of Understanding and Acceptance

In the closing chapters of Come On Shore and We Will Kill and Eat You All, Thompson reflects on the lessons she has learned from her experiences in New Zealand. She acknowledges that cultural understanding is a continuous process, one that requires an open mind and a willingness to embrace differences.

The book concludes with Thompson and Seven's marriage, a celebration of their love and their shared commitment to bridging the gap between their cultures. Despite the challenges they have faced, the couple's story serves as a testament to the power of love and understanding in overcoming the barriers of cultural difference.