"Land in a swamp, march through the woods, and in some inland post feel the savagery, the utter savagery, had closed around him- all that mysterious life of the wilderness that stirs in the forest, in the jungles, in the hearts of wild men." Conrad uses vivid imagery and graphic descriptions in order to depict to the reader the feelings he posses while in Africa, and the essence of the jungle. The novel defines Conrad's journey through an uncharted land, with eloquence enough to allow the readers to embody the encounter themselves. The title of the book itself, exemplifies Conrad's sentiments while on a trek through Africa's jungles, and depicts the darkness that emanates. As demonstrated in the opening sentence, the story captures the reader by enticing them into a world unknown and maintains a level of excitement and inquiry throughout. Thus any reader curious about the early colonization of Africa will be enthralled and thoroughly educated. .

             Conrad gives readers a story of personal experience, in addition to a historical account of the events taking place in 18nth century Africa. At times he goes into severe detail, in situations in which he is taken aback. This includes the travels through the marsh and swamp lands, the treatment of the natives, and the appearance of the new environment. When defining his surroundings he often uses transitions that revert back to the title of the work, allowing him to keep a theme of fear, death, and most significantly darkness. The setting is notably a major focus point in Conrad's work, and although time plays little role in the novel, the background encompasses much of the story line, and teaches the reader the conditions of the time period. .

             Heart of Darkness not only informs the reader, but also entertains them with a riveting plot about the evils of capitalism, when imposed upon a more simple society. It also address the abuses of natives, through multiple chronicles of slavery, from a first hand account.