The tale: an ape in a zoo is taught how to draw. The first thing it draws is the bars of its cage. I've heard this story a couple of times (often in connection with Vladimir Nabokov), but can't find any information about the original experiment. Did this actually happen? Is it just a fable? Did Nabokov get Punk'd? Who was this ape and where can I find out more?
posted on Mar 16, 2007 - 8 answers