“We” · Chapter
II: My First Plane explained
Charles Lindbergh recounts his purchase of a surplus Curtiss Jenny for $500, his first solo flight, and his early cross-country flying experiences, including barnstorming in Mississippi.
What happens
Charles Lindbergh recounts his purchase of a surplus Curtiss Jenny for $500, his first solo flight, and his early cross-country flying experiences, including barnstorming in Mississippi.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional peak occurs when Lindbergh, having just survived the transatlantic flight and the chaotic Paris…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Pioneering Spirit and Aviation
Lindbergh's purchase of his first plane and his determination to fly solo exemplify the pioneering spirit of early aviation.
- Risk, Sacrifice, and Perseverance
Lindbergh's risky first solo takeoff, his emergency landing in Meridian, and his persistence in learning to fly despite limited funds highlight these themes.
- Youth and Idealism
Lindbergh's youthful ambition to own a plane and his idealistic confidence in his Jenny reflect the optimism of a young aviator.
Characters to notice
- Charles Lindbergh
Narrator and protagonist; buys his first plane, takes his first solo flight, and begins barnstorming.
- H. J. Lynch
Lindbergh flew with Lynch in Montana before buying his own plane.
- Reese
Visits Lindbergh at Americus; they exchange flying experiences and Reese advises on looping.
- E. G. Bahl
Lindbergh flew with Bahl during his early cross-country trips and witnessed loops and tailspins.
Key passages
“I bought one of these ships with a new Curtiss OX-5 motor and full equipment for five hundred dollars.”
Lindbergh purchased a surplus Jenny with a new engine and full gear for $500.
Describes the acquisition of his first plane.
“The first solo flight is one of the events in a pilot's life which forever remains impressed on his memory.”
A pilot's first solo flight is an unforgettable milestone.
Reflects on the significance of soloing.
“I had extracted promises from half a dozen citizens to ride at five dollars each.”
Lindbergh got six locals to agree to pay $5 each for a ride.
Shows his barnstorming business model.
