This quote suggests that every individual has a unique lineage or heritage, symbolized by their own tree with branches reaching back through time to connect them with ancestors and family history. At the heart of this idea lies the concept of an overarching ancestor known as "Probably Arboreal," implying a shared origin for all humans in our distant evolutionary past when early primates lived among trees.
The deeper meaning of this quote delves into the interconnectedness of humanity through both ancestry and evolution. It highlights that despite our unique individual journeys, there is a common thread running through all human stories: our shared beginnings as arboreal creatures. This notion underscores not just familial ties but also our collective journey as a species, emphasizing the universal aspects of human history and biology.
The quote comes from Robert Louis Stevenson, a renowned 19th-century Scottish novelist and poet best known for his works such as "Treasure Island" and "Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde." Stevenson's writing often explored themes of duality and the complexities of human nature. This particular quote reflects his keen interest in the intertwining of human history, biology, and narrative storytelling.
