Recording Recovered From Zoo Archive: Koko Reflects on 9/11

The following is a transcript of a recently recovered 2010 interview with Koko the Gorilla in which she reflects on the events of September 11, 2001. Koko’s parts are taken directly from her sign language, which is reflected in the final transcript. Francine “Penny” Patterson, Koko’s trainer, was in the room to translate.

Recording begins:

Interviewer: Koko, I’m so glad that we could sit down together for this chat. 

Koko: GIVE ORANGE

The interviewer places an unpeeled orange into Koko’s outstretched hand.

Interviewer: September 11th was a traumatic time for the nation, and everyone has their own perspective of what happened that day. As a gorilla, what would you say it means to you?

Koko: YUMMY ORANGE

Interviewer: Many people report remembering exactly where they were when they heard the news. Do you remember where you were when it all happened?

Koko: PENNY SAY TERRORISM 

Koko: KOKO CRUSH KITTEN

Interviewer: Fascinating. And what of the aftermath? The days following the attacks?

Koko: ME HELP RECOVERY EFFORT ME HELP BUSH 85% APPROVAL RATING GIVE ME ORANGE ME EAT ORANGE ME LOVE IRAQ WAR GOOD

Interviewer: What would you say was the most shocking part of the day for you?

Koko: NO ORANGE 

Koko: THEY HIT THE FUCKING PENTAGON

Interviewer: Truly a remarkable day for all of us. Well Koko, it’s been an honor and a pleasure speaking with you today — thank you for sharing your unique perspective.