Jon Krakauer’s non-fiction book ”Into the Wild” tells the story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who left behind his privileged life and immersed himself in the uncharted wilderness of Alaska. The book is an account of his journey, starting from his upbringing in a well-to-do family to his ultimate death in the Alaskan wilderness.
McCandless was a bright and driven individual, with a future of success mapped out for him. However, he felt disillusioned with the materialistic society and yearned for something more meaningful. This drove him to give away all his belongings, including his savings, and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
His journey took him through various parts of America, Mexico, and finally, Alaska, where he set up camp in an abandoned bus. He lived off the land, foraging for food and surviving extreme weather conditions. Through his journal writings and interactions with the people he met on his way, we get a glimpse into his thoughts and motivations.
McCandless’s journey was a quest for freedom, a rejection of societal norms, and a search for truth. He was inspired by the writings of authors like Jack London and Henry David Thoreau, who glorified a life close to nature. McCandless wanted to experience the rawness of the wild, its beauty and dangers, and find a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him.
The journey, however, was not without its hardships. McCandless faced many challenges, such as dealing with harsh weather, starvation, and isolation. He had to rely on his survival skills and the generosity of strangers for his basic needs. But he continued to push through, determined to achieve his goal of living a life of simplicity and freedom.
As his journey progressed, McCandless underwent a transformation. He shed his privileged identity and embraced the persona of ”Alexander Supertramp,” a free-spirited adventurer. He also learned to let go of his past and forgive his parents, whom he blamed for his feelings of alienation.
But as McCandless delved deeper into the wilderness, he also realized the harsh realities of survival. His faulty decision-making and lack of knowledge about the wild led to his eventual demise. His body was discovered by an old hunter, who later informed his family of his death.
McCandless’s journey and tragic ending have sparked debates and controversies. Some saw him as a hero, who defied societal norms and lived life on his own terms. Others deemed him as foolish and irresponsible for venturing out into the wild unprepared. But what is undisputed is that his journey enabled him to discover the true meaning of life.
Krakauer’s book, along with the story of McCandless, has resonated with many people. It has inspired numerous young individuals to embark on their own journeys into the wild, seeking solace and understanding in a world that is becoming increasingly complicated and materialistic.
However, it is essential to realize that McCandless’s journey should not be glorified or romanticized. It serves as a reminder that freedom comes with responsibility and preparation. McCandless’s death was a result of his lack of preparation and knowledge, and it should serve as a lesson for future adventurers.
In conclusion, ”Into the Wild” is a poignant tale of a young man’s journey of self-discovery, which ultimately led to his tragic death. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and finding meaning in life beyond material possessions. It shows the beauty and dangers of the wild and serves as a reminder to always be prepared before venturing into the unknown. McCandless’s story lives on and continues to inspire and spark conversations about the true essence of life.