Chapter 4 forms a centrepiece of the book because it dissects how dominant narrative schemata are built, how they stabilise migration storytelling, and how they can be contested. The first part introduces figures of self-narrations with a particular focus on the aventurier. This self-designation is linked to a simple adventure narrative (bushfalling) along which migration expectations are often framed. In a precarious and volatile context, a migration project which promises a certain future and all-encompassing success is highly compelling. Despite the considerable loss of geo-political influence, the findings of Chapter 4b suggest that Europe is still a powerful narrative reference in migration discourses. This definition power can for instance be observed in narratively flawed EU campaigns which promote ‘happiness at home’ as a counter narration to the migration success narrative. They bear witness to basic European misconceptions about international migration from Africa.