A Pineapple View of the World
The pineapple: a tropical fruit, a symbol of global trade, the namesake inspiration for piña coladas, and The Real Capitalist’s favorite fruit. A pineapple represents everything I want The Real Capitalist to be about. The tropical fruit captures key characteristics of successful entrepreneurs and venture capitalism.
Worldwide the pineapple is a symbol for welcoming and it just so happens to be my favorite fruit. The welcoming symbolism of the pineapple was created when the tropical fruit was introduced to Europe in the 1493 (thanks Christopher Columbus).
The only way Europeans could get their hands on this rare fruit was through trade and, in rare instances, greenhouse farming. For the next 200 years the fruit became very popular, which meant only the wealthiest people could afford this tropical treat. Historically, members of the upper-class would give guests a pineapple symbolizing generosity, hospitality, and wealth.
In the 18th century the fruit became a figure in a variety of architecture throughout Europe and America (if you don’t believe me Google Dunmore Pineapple). The signs of pineapples are still seen in building architecture all throughout the world, in buildings which are welcoming guests, such as homes and hotels.
So you might be thinking: ‘cool, glad you have an unhealthy obsession with pineapples, but what does a pineapple have to do with moving to Silicon Valley?’ Well reader, pineapples are a great representation of an adventure and welcoming the unknown. Gearing up for my Fall semester at Draper University, I have no idea what to expect but I know it will surely be an adventure. In order to get the most out of this experience, one must embrace the characteristics of a pineapple.
Pineapples are a symbol of:
Welcoming: A large part of the program will be welcoming new opportunities and the unknown. Like a pineapple, an entrepreneur needs to be willing to jump into the deep end and learn to swim from there.
Wealth: Pineapples are also a symbol of wealth and in the case of next semester, wealth comes in the form of knowledge. Being in Silicon Valley and having the opportunity to speak with many experienced entrepreneurs, it is important to be a sponge and soak in all the information that comes along with all the experiences.
Standout: The thing I love most about pineapples is how much they stand out. As a student pursuing a career as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist, you have to be willing to try a path outside the normal track and be willing to do things a little differently.
Versatile: No two pineapples ever have the same taste; some are sweeter while others have a little more tangy taste. In Silicon Valley, entrepreneurs and venture capitalists need to be able to be adaptable and willing to try new environments. In other words, they need to be able to adjust to the sweet or tang of the opportunities they have before them.
The pineapple didn’t become so popular because it was like all the other fruit; it became popular because it was so different from the others. It is so sweet and refreshing. Continuing in my journey, I am inspired by the pineapple and I am excited to welcome this new adventure in Silicon Valley.
