The narrator expresses a belief that Christian the lion would soon demonstrate his inherent knowledge and instincts, despite being raised in captivity. This confidence is contrasted with doubts about his owners' abilities to adapt to the wilderness setting of the camp. The description of the owners suggests that they are unconventional, with long hair and unique fashions, which raises concerns about their readiness for the challenges of living in such an environment.
This contrast emphasizes the bond between the lion and the narrator, highlighting the importance of natural instincts over the potentially ill-suited lifestyle choices of Christian’s owners. There is a sense of hope that, given the right circumstances, Christian would flourish, while the narrative also indicates a level of skepticism regarding the preparedness of those responsible for him. This dynamic sets the stage for exploring the themes of nature versus nurture and the complexities of living with a wild animal.