Into the Wild by Zoey Lai (Student WHS)

Zoey Y. Lai

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-16 20:21:21 UTC

"Into the Wild"—man, I love that title already because I love nature and I often daydream about a moment where I can be completely embraced by it and nothing else. Though I'm not an expert at fishing or hunting or even living outdoors, I do love all things natural. Growing up my dad took us out on a few camping trips and fishing trips and though I'm not a huge fan of fishing, I greatly enjoy being outdoors and in nature. I believe it has very powerful healing properties that can often take me out of a mental rut and calm me down. I appreciate nature for all the peace, serenity, and comfort it has brought me so I try to preserve it as much as I can.

I always enjoyed being active but it wasn't until recently that I've appreciated nature as much as I do now. I wasn't as aware as I am now when I was younger. I used to run around, play in the dirt with my friends, occasionally go on outdoor adventures, but I never really took a moment to realize how much nature plays a role in my daily life. I certainly didn't understand how restorative it could be to my soul when I was younger.

After moving to California to live with my dad, I began hiking, biking, swimming, and sun-bathing more often. Though I don't believe my love for nature comes directly from him, I acknowledge and appreciate him for exposing me to more outdoor activities and helping me overcome fears I had about the outdoors, such as the ocean. I used to be terrified of the ocean because I was often hit with hard waves as a child but since I've swam in the deeper end, I've felt so revitalized and happy with being in the water. My house also gets really cold sometimes so stepping outside to soak in the sunlight really warms my heart and body.

I don't do as much as I'd like to be out in nature right now but I do hope to interact with it much more in the future—ideally on a daily basis. I want to be in girl scouts and I want to do more outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, rock-climbing, swimming/surfing, etc. I even want to enjoy more meals outdoors and have my actions align with my values. One of my greatest values is to protect and love Mother Nature the way She has showered me in love, so I want to learn how to compost and reduce my overall environmental footprint as much as I can in the future.

Chapter 1: The Alaska Interior

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-19 07:02:22 UTC

Summary: Christopher McCandless, who renamed himself to be known as Alex, begins a journey Into the Wild. He drops all his possessions and even his identity, excited (p. 6) to enter the wilderness with all of its uncovered possibilities and challenges. Chris is everything but normal (p. 7) according to Jim Gallien, a considerate man who offered to drive him to the head of the Stampede Trail from Alaska. Jim Gallien tried to warn him that the adventure he'd be experiencing would not be some breezy and fun like one that somebody would find in the Alaska magazine (p. 4) but Alex came off as congenial (p. 5) and well-educated (p. 5). Though concerned (p. 5) with the lack of supplies and food Alex had on hand, he ultimately let him free on his voyage to the unknown. To aid him on his journey, Gallien offered Alex food and gear.

Analysis: I find Chris to be a courageous and inspiring man. Though some might argue that his actions were absurd, I find it amazing that he was going into the wild with such limited supply and excitement. I love the moment he said "I don't want to know what time it is. I don't want to know what day it is or where I am," because I can relate to it. Sometimes I just want to escape this modern world without feeling restricted or conflicted about time—I simply want to live, be, and feel.

#mood #Chrisisawesome #whatnext

Chapter 2: The Stampede Trail

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-19 07:26:43 UTC

Summary: After four demanding months in the wild, Chris McCandless is found dead inside of an abandoned bus, spotted by six Alaskans. Chris' deceased body, examined by police, weighed sixty-seven pounds (p. 14) and carried no identification (p. 14). The profound odor (p. 12) emanating from the vehicle is what alerted the Alaskans in the first place. It was hypothesized that the most likely reason for his death was due to starvation (p. 14) because he was in desperate need of help and only foraging for berries (p. 12) when he wrote his last S.O.S (p. 12) note. This time, he signed off with his real name, Chris McCandless, acknowledging the severity of the event and situation. With him, he left behind journal entries and self-portraits (p. 14) of him in the wild.

Analysis: I found it quite sad to hear about Chris' death so immediately. There is also a lingering image in my mind of his cold body laying there in the bus without any souls coming to rescue him. I can only imagine the thoughts encasing him as his soul left his body. I'm very curious as to how the police unfolded the investigation and how the Alaskan hunters and travelers felt about the body. Though the turnout seems unfortunate, it is amazing that Alex managed to survive for four entire months without proper equipment or even food.

#disturbed #tellmemore #poorguy

My name is Zoey Lai and...

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-19 07:34:17 UTC

I'm a student at Westminster High School who wishes to be much more. I enjoy giving back, helping others, and exploring. I want to become more healthy, insightful, disciplined, real, and loving. Welcome to my Padlet where I will investigate Chris McCandless' path Into the Wild.

Chapter 3: Carthage

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-19 20:18:31 UTC

Summary: Christopher McCandless seeks energy (p. 15) and excitement, something that he seemed to lack in his family (p. 18) life. According to Wayne Westernberg, a man Chris met in South Dakota, he was unlike other hitchhikers; he was the hardest worker (p. 18) he has ever met and he was intelligent (p. 18) and ethical (p.18). Chris was an over thinker and always had to know the answer to something. He worked with Westernberg for a couple of years and became popular in town, known for his amazing stories about his adventures. Chris also used all his savings (24 thousand) to donate to charity for aiding world-hunger (p. 20).

Analysis: I resonated with Chris's desires and motives for doing what he did. I also relate to his feelings of wanting to run off and do his own things but first feeling the need to take care of academic work to satisfy parents. I really admire Chris in this chapter because he seems like a diligent man who commits to his goals and really has an upright character. I believe his actions are an act of spontaneity and a desire for freedom.

#freedom #morals #character

Chapter 4: Detrital Wash

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-21 05:52:59 UTC

Alex heads west towards Mexico hoping to find the ocean and continue his voyage but along the way we encounter several hardships. For example, government authorities found his Datsun car abandoned and drenched. They managed to repair it and use it to bust illegal action. He also got scammed by a man who offered work but no pay (p. 30). Authorities were alerted of his house address when fining him with a ticket for hitchhiking so his parents were extremely worried when they found out about the damage that had been done, such as abandoning his vehicle and donating his money. The happy, young, wildhearted (p. 31) boy traveled past mountains (p. 29) and beautiful, serene views of nature that overjoyed (p. 32) him, but he had to turn back north when he almost died in the ocean. Despite his many adversities and spontaneous decisions like burning his money, his spirit was still soaring (p. 37). Along his journey he enjoyed meeting new people and they believed he was a good kid (p. 30).

Analysis: It's ironic how Alex's vehicle got in the hands of the police/government officials considering how heavily against them he was. Overall, I find this chapter mesmerizing because of the actions Alex took and the obstacles Alex managed to get through. He went foraging, surviving off plants, he ditched his vehicle which might've served as his home, he burned his money, he hitchhiked and openly welcomed strangers—he did so many respectable things to stay true to himself and his journey. I really enjoy his character and I can understand his feeling of immense happiness and satisfaction despite the seemingly energy-taxing and difficult journey. He may have lost 25 pounds but he gained so much more in spirit, in memories, in knowledge, and much more that maybe even this book can not explain. I believe the people who get it, get it. I love Alex.

#spirituality #excitement #seekingrevelations

Chapter 5: Bullhead City

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-21 20:22:08 UTC

Summary: Chris or "Alex" settles down for a bit in Bullhead City, Arizona. He began working at McDonald's and was known for being a responsible worker, always showing up and abiding by the rules but others claimed he was in his own world while working and he had some odd quirks like peeling off his socks the minute his shift was over. He quit (p. 41) McDonald's and continued his journey, often socializing with many people. Some characterized him as temperamental (p. 42) and complex but more often people agreed that he was a good kid with good intentions. He even got along with animals (p. 45) It seemed to others that he was looking for something (p. 42). He also encountered a girl named Tracy who fell in love (p. 44) with him but she was too young for him.

Analysis: In this chapter Chris shows different facets of himself and people have several interpretations of him. Though it doesn't appeal to me as much that Chris isn't living as true to himself as prior chapters, I think it's still very reasonable for Chris to take the actions he has to stabilize himself for a bit. For a minute I was a little dismayed by the fact that he returned to normal city life but I believe it makes perfect sense. Not only was he earning a living and saving up, he was exposing other people to the things he had seen, such as the beautiful nature and experiences. I believe these stories could inspire everyday people living in a standard society and it could also allow him to use up his social battery for moments when he'd be alone again. I appreciate how Alex is still true to his values wherever he goes, like the sock statement at McDonald's and being a respectful, good-natured individual wherever he went. Despite that one worker disliking his work ethic, I perceive his actions as staying true to himself and really reminiscing on his true values and beliefs.

#corporatejob #irony #exposure

Chapter 6: Anza Borrego

zylai100_4 — 2022-12-23 06:42:28 UTC

Summary: Ronald Franz meets Alex and wants to adopt him after getting to know him more. Franz lost his wife and only child after the war to a car accident so having Alex by his side filled the void quite a bit. Alex is characterized as intelligent and not common (p. 48). They stay in contact with each other for a while until Alex heads towards Alaska, hopping trains (p.53), being a hobo (p. 53), and having fun (p.53). Alex is appreciative to have made a friendship (p. 55) without the emotional baggage that often comes with human intimacy. He heavily advises Franz not to live a life of security (p. 57) as it is damaging (p. 57) to a man's true adventurous spirit and soul. Alex believes in God and tells Franz God is everywhere but since he died, Franz loses faith and becomes atheist.

Analysis: This chapter truly resonated with me when Alex said joy doesn't just come from human relationships and God has placed it all around us, in everything and anything we might experience. I love how Alex truly welcomes unconventional living and living outside a box of security. It makes me feel more liberated and ambitious hearing from Alex. I very much agree with his statements even though I haven't explored enough to have lived "unconventionally" yet. I am truly so happy and grateful Alex has faith and trust in God. I love his character more and more. It's scary and heart-breaking the turnout for Franz, though losing faith does nothing but hurt the soul, like the way he became very sick after alcohol and tears. I believe Franz should be grateful to have had someone who lit his life back up at least for a while, though it's still very sad and scary and I sympathize for him.

#TrustinGod #Alexisright #pleasekeepthespiritalive

Chapter 7: Carthage

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-09 21:39:32 UTC

Summary: Chris/Alex is described by Wayne as hard-working and diligent but sometimes odd, such as the time he didn't clean the grease (p. 63) from his microwave. Alex introduced his girlfriend to Wayne, her name was Gail Borah, a petite blond, 32-year-old mother of two. Throughout Chris's life, he wasn't very sexually active; in fact, there's little to no evidence suggesting he entangled in sexual affairs. He believed in chastity (66) and was the type of person to desire a family and long-term, serious relationship. Some of his reasons for remaining pure included his childhood experiences with his parents which made him stray from relationships, his faithfulness to his values such as God and Nature, and his inspiring role-models who remained virgins in their lifetimes. According to Chris, he set foot on this journey because his father felt tyrannic to him, taking control (p. 64) and being very authoritative. That didn't sit well with Chris's independent (p. 64) and stubborn nature. He did love his sister (p. 63), Carine though. Most people who came in contact with Alex fell in love, either romantically or with his character. An example is Wayne's mother who claimed he seemed like the type of person living out his beliefs (p. 67). He left such a lasting impression on her that she was bothered (pg. 67) his death despite only knowing him for five hours.

Analysis: I understand the comment Alex made about flying being like cheating. I really love Alex despite the negative things people sometimes say about him because he really challenges himself to be a good character and he's not so obligated to anything that he can just have a good conversation with people and really deep down connect with them. The feelings he has to learn and be a good, morally upright person stems from deep down and I respect that. It's evident in his character. Even though his life was short lived, he clearly made a lasting impression on people which in my opinion, makes it worth it. If his reason for not wanting to be in relationships or not actively seeking one was because of his parents, I can relate.

#impressionable #datinglife #character

Chapter 8: Alaska

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-10 19:56:02 UTC

Summary: Jon Krakauer uses this chapter to show his readers that other men have come to their demise (p. 70) on Alaskan adventures, even if the circumstances are a bit different from those of Chris McCandless. First up is Gene Rossellini, the modern day caveman! Gene heads north from the lower 48 in the early 1970's. He's a super intelligent guy looking to test himself in Alaska ...sound like anyone we know?? Well, "the mayor of Hippie Cove" as Gene is called lives a prehistoric existence, testing himself to see if modern day man can live in the same way as the cavemen did it back in the day. Gene tries his hardest, but sadly writes, "I learned that it is not possible for human beings as we know to live off the land" (p. 75) before plunging a knife through his heart when he realizes the true extent of his failure (p. 75). Next up is crazy John Waterman. Lots of similarities to Chris: he's from the D.C. area, has MAJOR issues with his dad and is super smart. John is an accomplish climber and alpinist (p. 79) before he starts losing his marbles, running for president of the United States on a platform to end hunger. SPOILER ALERT: He doesn't win the election! Anywho, John comes unhinged, decides to climb the most difficult mountain in all of Alaska in the dead of winter and is never heard from again. Alaska state troopers believe he probably fell down a crevasse (p. 80) to his death, although his remains were never found. And last up is poor Carl McCunn. Another transplant from the lower 48, Carl is the life of the party - just like Chris. Good guy, fun to be around, charming, but lacks common sense & thinks someone will bail him out if he ends up in trouble. Similar to Chris, he hatches a plan to go off into the wild for a few months BUT he fails to set up an Uber (think Uber plane!) to come back and pick him up. The summer turns to fall and McCunn is starving and freezing. But wait...a plane flies overhead and it looks like Carl is going to be rescued!!! Unfortunately, Carl doesn't know that waving ONE hand in the air means you're good, no need to rescue you instead of throwing TWO hands in the air, the universal sign for HELP!!! Carl is dying a slow and painful death by a mix of starvation and frostbite, so in his final diary (p. 81) he explains that he shot himself in the head to end his misery. Guess Chris doesn't sound that crazy or unprepared after all, huh??

Analysis: This chapter was quite heavy and a lot to unpack. It makes me more aware of the dangers of entering the wild and living out there in this modern day world. I guess we've become extremely sheltered and conditioned to rely on the resources we have now that it would be nearly impossible to live out there in good shape. It makes me more appreciative for what I have but it kind of depresses the free and fun, revitalizing spirit that is attached to the idea of nature to me. I still love nature though. Just intense stories. I'm really surprised those guys took their own lives; maybe they could have pushed through the physical conditions but their minds must've given out. Their willpower faltered.

#mustbeextreme #mothernatureisbeautifulandcrazy
#inspiring

Chapter 9: Davis Gulch

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-10 20:07:37 UTC

Summary: Another chapter about a dude who isn't Chris McCandless. Everett Ruess shares many similarities with our main character though - he's a wanderer (p. 90), free spirit, well liked risk taker and lover of all things solitude and wilderness. Everett is a bit younger than Chris when he begins his vagabond (p. 91) journey, dropping out of UCLA after only one semester to follow his dream (p. 96) of living a nomadic existence. Unlike Chris, Everett focuses his travels in the southwest rather than north, but like Chris he also renames himself choosing the moniker Nemo after the character Captain Nemo in the Jules Verne classic Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. And yes, Nemo the fish we know today is named after that character, too! While on a solo expedition in Utah, Ruess seemingly disappears, never to be heard from again. A search party is sent to find him after he goes incommunicado (p. 93), but other than finding his donkey, some cave drawings/graffiti he made and pieces of his gear, Ruess was never seen again. Stories vary on what happen to him - maybe he was a victim of his own reckless innocence (p, 97) and fell while hiking or possibly drown, but some speculate that he was murdered by Native Americans. No one ever found him or his remains, so Everett's end remains a mystery. Like Chris, Everett's passion for nature and adventure won out over a conventional life, yet neither man made it out of the wild...

Analysis: It seems like many people assume Nemo just died of unfortunate events but maybe living a life of solitude and wilderness was exactly what he needed and/or wanted. Maybe it was his preference to live out there and never return. As I was reading this chapter's breakdown, I was reminded of a man who was taken out of his free and natural state in the wilderness by law enforcement and that felt like a robbery to the man's freedom and spirit. The wild is captivating.

#morethanschool #freespirits #liveyourtruth

Chapter 10: Fairbanks

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-11 19:40:52 UTC

Summary: Chris's story is reported in the newspaper (p. 99) but state troopers have yet to identify who the man they found is. Troopers have insufficient and invalid evidence as they search for Chris's identity and the state trooper, Roger Ellis, receives multiple unhelpful calls (p. 100) from people which make him less resistant to listen. However, Jim Gallien and Wayne Westernberg are able to provide valuable information to investigators that allow them to identify the body as Chris J. McCandless. Their calls and attitudes seem genuine (p. 100) but also dispirited (p. 100). Sam, Chris's half brother calls into to confirm that the body is indeed Chris. He heads towards his parents house and doesn't know how to tell them that their child is dead (p. 102).

Analysis: I found it pretty characteristic of Chris to have filled out his tax form the way he did. Though it was a little rude to the government, I found it really cool and kind of funny how he openly expressed his feelings and wasn't afraid to be himself. In terms of the investigation itself, I find it funny how the investigators seemed confident in the information they were gathering but how it was completely off. It makes me think about how difficult other investigations are. I'd say, never be too sure.

#pondering #wemissChris #socialsecurity

Chapter 12: Annandale

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-15 06:30:38 UTC

Summary: Leaving high school and entering Emory College, Chris leaves his parents on a positive note, thanking Walt for his hard work in raising him and respecting both parents. It wasn't until his second year in college when he the truth (p. 117) about his father's sins took a toll on his behavior towards his parents. Walt apparently lived in two households (p. 121), raising two sets of kids and tending to both his wives, which drew Chris mad (p. 121). According to the author, Chris followed a rigorous moral code (p. 122) to which he applied to others around him. He could forgive flawed traits in people but he could not seem to forgive his father. His outrage with injustice (p. 123) grew and developed over time and Chris was off one day, not contacting his parents nor his sister, Carine. Carine wasn't hurt by this as she understood him and knew he enjoyed his independence but his parents were deeply hurt and worried. Chris's mother can even recall the moment she woke up crying as she heard Chris calling "Mom! Help!" but couldn't help him because she didn't know where he was.

Analysis: This chapter struck in three ways: one concerning Chris's outlook with injustice and evil in the world, two with Chris's relationship to his parents, and three with the way his mother felt Chris call out to her that one night. I feel like I can relate to Chris a lot. I try not to think about what's negative in this world but in recent weeks when I observed in greater detail the world and relationships around me, I can't help but to feel sad about the way people treat one another. Like why are people so mean to one another? It's hard to cope with the negative news my dad tells me about, concerning death, guns, envy, evil, etc. I just want to stay away from evil as much as I can and I feel very comforted by Chris's strong moral code. I also relate to Chris's childhood experience with his parent's relationship problems seeping into his personal love life. Finally, the moment Chris's mom said she wasn't dreaming and knew Chris was calling out for her, I went a little cold. Because I believe he did and it reminded me of the moments I had a feeling my grandma was hurt or fainted. I woke up learning that she had fainted, every time. It's not a coincidence, not a lie, it's real and it's spiritual energy and I feel it. Amen.

#spiritual #motherslove #painedbythewrong

Chapter 11: Chesapeake Beach

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-15 08:00:05 UTC

Summary: Growing up, it was clear to friends and family that Chris was a wanderlust (p. 105). He was academically gifted (p. 106) but didn't want to be in a higher level class because it required him to do extra schoolwork (p. 106). He was the type to be liked by everyone around him, sociable, but able to be alone without being lonely (p. 107). He was a really good guy, deeply caring about whatever injustices existed in the world, such as racism and world hunger. He spent many nights addressing his values, extending food to the homeless and understanding their stories. His grandfather left a deep impression (p. 109) on him when he was younger, as he was attracted to the wild and often loving towards animals. His parents believe he was brilliant (p. 105) and a natural entrepreneur, but he left them feeling sorrow when he disappeared. Chris also pushed himself really hard. He was the head of the cross country team and would advise other students to think as if they were running from all the evil in the world when they ran. He believed it was all mental and believed in using whatever energy was available. When he took off, he left Walk softer (p. 105) than before.

Analysis: I love Chris. I love how humble he is, but it's more than just being humble, he's ethical, he's moral. He doesn't just not flaunt wealth; he doesn't even like the idea of it. He doesn't care to be in gifted classes in school; something that many kids would brag about or hold pride in their hearts for getting into, somebody like me. He doesn't seek money, doesn't seek high status, and it's clear to me that he doesn't seek other temptations that corrupt others, like food. He'll finish all the food on his plate but he won't overeat. Remember that chapter that said, he had lost immense weight but his spirit was soaring? McCandless just amazes me and I want to be more like him. Not to completely justify myself but I might feel good about academic achievements because I felt academically inferior when I was really young but I'm trying not to associate my grades or even my classes, with my worth. But I agree with Chris that achievements via whatever source, such as good grades, wealth, abundance-they ARE sources of corruption and evil. They cause people to think they are superior, thus often wronging others or placing themselves on a pedestal. I want to be more like McCandless, be truly humble, and not seek validation from what society deems valuable or worthy. I love Christopher McCandless's character. I believe he sourced his energy from God. He extended energy using whatever he had in him and pushed with God's love, energy, and help. I love his aversion towards evil.

#myinspiration #corruption #character

Chapter 13: Virginia Beach

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-18 07:25:45 UTC

Summary: Sam delivers the news to Chris Fish, Carine’s significant other, who delivers the news to Carine and she completely breaks down. In disbelief, she begins screaming (p. 130) and cries in a fetal position for nearly 5 hours. They drive four hours to Billie and Walt, taking a stop at a church for Carine to pray, and inform Chris’s parents. Billie decides not to listen until investigators can confirm that his dental x-rays correspond with Chris’s deceased body but once they do she is left irreparable (p. 132). She can’t understand (p. 132) why Chris would take such extreme actions but his sister seems to be more understanding of him. Though still heartbroken, she is described as a high achiever and money maker. She shares Chris’s distaste for racism but doesn’t believe money (p. 129) is a form of corruption or evil. She flew to collect his final remains, cremated (p. 131) his body, and forced herself to eat every last bit of her poor meal considering how Chris starved to death (p. 131). While Carine and Billie shed 8-10 pounds within the first few weeks of receiving the news, Walt compulsively eats , gaining 8 pounds.

Analysis: Upon reading the first excerpt in the chapter, I felt happy. Like I was receiving a breath of fresh air. The way I interpreted the message was that Chris was in alignment with nature and was ready to rid of thoughts. He was simply going to allow himself to fully live, to have his mind set on something and do it, without looking back. In some ways it reminds me of Bruce Lee’s philosophy or words of wisdom, “Empty your mind.” I feel like people, especially alive people, and people who haven’t deeply resonated with passed souls (such as Chris’s mom who couldn’t understand why he would take on such extreme actions), will continue to question the world and why “bad things” like this have to happen. Her response is exactly why Chris wanted to get away. She just doesn’t understand. She loves him as any mother does, but she doesn’t truly get him. Chris was doing more than just running away from home, Chris was soul searching. And Chris was trying to relieve himself of all the toxins and superficialities of this modern day world. And in doing so he might’ve hurt his biological family members but his story, spirit, and soul lives on to inspire and revitalize thousands, maybe millions of other souls. I believe we, as a society, often hear about the death of a loved one and think “they were so young. They weren’t meant to go.” But who are we to say or to judge that? To mean that? Did we know them? Their thoughts? Their feelings? Just some things to consider.

Also, I find it kind of disappointing that Carine turned out like her parents who were workaholic most of their lives. She’s a very wealthy individual now but probably incredibly sheltered. The author did mention shes afraid to go out anywhere besides to her parents and home. Meanwhile Chris who wasn’t a hypocrite, explored a very unsheltered life but probably lived a very exhilarating, fulfilling one. He actually lived true to his values, beliefs, and feelings (overall) and thus his story lives on. She may have a healed relationship with her parents but in a way it feels like she settled for less, not in terms of attainable materialistic things, but in terms of life. Real, giving life. Amen.

#IloveAlex #howcanyouunderstand #deeperthoughts

Chapter 14: The Stikine Ice Cap

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-18 19:31:34 UTC

Summary: To answer Billie McCandless' question at the end of Chapter 13 about why anyone would do what Chris did, Jon Krakauer flips the script and tells his own story of Alaska adventure. At the age of 23, Krakauer decides to head to the great north to find himself not by living in the wild, but by climbing the major mountains in the 49th state. He becomes obsessed with hiking Devil's Thumb, a very steep, challenging ascent on the glacier (p. 138) known as the Stikine Ice Cap. Like Chris, completing this climb becomes the only important thing in Krakauer's life. Chris obsessed over the bush, while Jon's obsession (p. 134) is this rare climbing achievement. Much like he anticipated, the ascent is dangerous and potentially deadly. Krakauer proceeds with caution during whiteout snow storms while crossing over delicate crevasses (p. 140) which could crack and send him tumbling down hundreds of feet. On a beautiful May day, Krakauer decides that this is it, he must summon the courage and concentration (p. 142) he needs to summit this peak today or else...Even with the warm temps and sunny day, the ice is impenetrable and Krakauer panics (p. 143). He can see the summit, but he can't reach it. His only option is down.

Analysis: Krakauer explores his own story which he relates to Chris because of how the previous chapter ended. I believe he attempts to explain why Chris did what he did, even if it was dangerous. Sometimes in life you really need to take risks to fulfill the soul and spirit. I'm interested in hearing about Krakauer's in depth story. I'm curious to know why Krakauer included his own story and why here.

#Kraukersstory #myfreedom #mountains

Chapter 15: The Stikine Ice Cap

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-18 19:45:23 UTC

Summary: So Krakauer makes it back to his tent, all butt hurt that he didn't achieve his goal of summiting Devil's Thumb. In a genius move, he decided to smoke a joint to make himself feel better since he's a bit depressed. Well, he ends up setting his tent on fire causing it to vaporize one of the walls so the temperature inside drops by 30 degrees or so. Good job, Jon! Anyway, this causes him to think about his reason for running away to climb: his volatile (p. 147) history with his father! They have a very similar relationship to Walt and Chris - dad is stubborn, treats his son poorly, pushes him away with his medical school expectations (p. 148) since he himself is a doctor. Yeah, I know: we've heard this story before. Jon uses these complicated (p. 147) family memories as motivation: he's going to attempt to summit the Thumb to prove his disbelieving dad wrong! He fixes his tent by packing it with snow and forges a plan to begin his final ascent on a slightly "easier" side of the mountain, the southeast side. At sunrise, he summons ALL of his courage and overcoming all of the terrifying (p. 150) obstacles, he finally makes it to the top - YAY! He enjoys the view for a minutes, snaps a few pics, and begins his descent. When he finally makes it off the mountain, he tells a few people what he did. They aren't extremely impressed. This makes Jon think about what he did and why he did it, causing him to say, "I thought climbing Devil's Thumb would fix all that was wrong with my life. In the end, of course, it changed almost nothing. But I came to appreciate that mountains make poor receptacles for dreams. And I lived to tell my tale" (p. 155). Years later when writing this book, he realizes that his hubris (p.155) pushed him to his limits to achieve his goal, but that the impact his possible death had on those who loved him would've been catastrophic. This is why he believes that Chris had NO intention to die in the wild, that he was only chasing his young, irresponsible dream.

Analysis: I find it interesting to listen to what Jon learned about his adventure story. I guess oftentimes we do attempt to solve our problems by running away, but running away never truly solves problems. It might give you deeper insight on your feelings but never really addresses the problem directly. I agree with Krakauer and his belief that Chris didn't go into the wild with the intention to die out there; I mean he did say he wanted a family in the future and he did leave friends off with a message that he'll be visiting. It just so happened that he did pass away in nature but he clearly had a reason for running away. I guess the moral of the story after hearing Krakauer's experience and feelings is to not allow pride and even ambition push you to do things in spiteful ways. Maybe don't even consider doing things in spiteful ways at all. Act from love instead of fear. Also, speak about what upsets you or makes you feel any sort of negativity or discomfort. No one REALLY has control over your life so even if someone you love, like your parent, wants you to live THEIR dream for you, don't if it doesn't align with your values. It's hard but its simply necessary in being true and feeling fulfilled. People can't read your mind so they can't really read your actions so be open and straightforward. Bottling negative emotions is unnecessary. Regardless though, I'm sure the climb was a necessary step to make Krauker as appreciative for life as he is today.

#speakyourtruth #gratitude #lessonsoflife

Chapter 16: The Alaska Interior

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-20 23:38:43 UTC

Summary: Chris has trouble finding a ride to Fairbanks but stumbles upon a man named Gaylord Stuckey who gives him a free ride. Though hesitant at first to pick up a hitchhiker, Stuckey quickly warms up to the dandy (p. 159) Chris, appreciating his courtesy and candidness (p. 159). Alex plans on finding books to entertain and educate him, mostly on the berries and plants he can eat in the wild. Stuckey feeds him for three days, advises him to wait until food has grown (since there was still a lot of snow) and to call his parents, but Alex was champing (p. 159) to get out and start hiking. He brought with him guns and books, hiked through a river, and discovered what he calls the "Magic Bus (pg. 163)." Alex could barely contain his excitement (p. 162) and was ready to become lost (p. 163) in the wild. The first few weeks went well; he received beautiful moments of solitude and felt accomplishment. There were moments when he felt famished but he was able to overcome that obstacle and hunt animals for food. At one point he shot a moose (p. 166) but soon described that experience as one of the greatest tragedies (p. 167) of his life because he was not able to save the parts in time to eat. Soon after he read about the immorality of eating animals or eating in general. The passage described something about how those who truly wish to preserve their higher nature, do not indulge in food much to give pleasure to the imagination. Chris also highlights a passage he resonates with about what a truly fulfilling life looks life: living for and loving others, a love, children, books, music, and nature. Krakauer claims he seemed ready to head back to civilization but he is unable to cross the river which multiplied in height so he heads back to the bus. He felt alone and scared.

Analysis: I found the passage about the immorality of food and specifically the consumption of animal products, as well as the passage about what brings true happiness very meaningful and enticing. I find it really interesting what Chris believes to be an ideal life; it's as though his life learning is printed even though he can not be physically in this world to tell us. I appreciate learning life lessons from anyone because it makes life more fulfilling and helps me live with more gratitude. I also find it interesting that the author of that passage said the only certain happiness in life is to live for others, because it is so often advised by others not to live for others. I believe the statement holds true when its applied in the right manner. To live for others in doing good and living for and by God, to love one's neighbor, to appreciate and love, that, in my opinion, is good use of living. To live for others by subjecting yourself solely to their desires for you, to live under forcible or negative control of others, that on the other hand is much poorer use of living. In life, there needs to be a balance. I really loved this chapter and I'm grateful Chris repented for the killing and wasting of the moose. I resonate with the passages about food and fulfillment and solitude.

#love #inthewild #solitude

Chapter 17: The Stampede Trail

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-23 07:14:40 UTC

Summary: Krakauer visits the Stampede Trail and the bus McCandless expired in, with hopes to understanding why. Upon reaching the river McCandless failed to cross, they learned that had he have a useful map, crossing the river would've been a trivial matter given the bucket (p. 174). Krakauer describes the terrain of the place; claustrophobic, oppressive (p. 176) with many mosquitoes. Though initially annoyed by the companions who invited themselves along, Krakauer soon feels grateful (p. 176) for their company. He explores the bus, understanding McCandless's attraction to it. He feels uneasy feeling as though he is invading McCandless's territory and belongings, so he heads out for fresh air. Upon pondering and reflecting and even discussing about McCandless's character, Krakauer boils down to several conclusions: 1) Teenagers, young people, have strong ambition and desires that elders don't seem to understand or remember, 2) As much danger that seems to be associated with risk-taking, there is an equal amount of excitement initiated by it. 3) Considering how easily enticed young people are to ideas, McCandless took his desire to challenge himself out in a logical (p. 182). Krakauer relates McCandless to several other adventurers who learned that risks had the ability to inspire incredible writing and color thought (p. 183), signaling the importance of risk-taking. He defends McCandless's journey and character through much of the chapter, considering how much backlash Chris receives. His friend credits McCandless for doing as much as he did for 16 weeks in the wild and suggests the people who are hard on him see their former themselves in him. They head to bed, sleeping away from the bus, and supposedly sleeping a dreamless (p. 186) night.

Analysis: I can tell how hard Krakauer wants to defend McCandless based on all the figures he relates to McCandless and their heroic or admirable qualities. Though I appreciate his commentary, I don't find it all necessary, in my opinion, to read all of that. In my opinion, McCandless was totally justified in his actions and reading about him throughout the novel, my heart remains touched. As I said before, the people who get him simply get him, and the ones that don't will continue to not understand. In this chapter Krakauer goes a bit into youthful beings and teenagers. Perhaps fitting within this age group and similarly seeking purpose and Truth from God, I strongly resonate with Chris and several things about him throughout the novel. I really love Chris and I think we lack spirited individuals like him but that's also what makes him so special. Christopher McCandless had a Good-Heart, a Devoted and Dedicated attitude, a Loving Nature, a Wild and Free Spirit. He got extremely extremely far given the resources he had on hand. I think many people who doubt him underestimate his situation. Regardless of why or how he did things or felt ways, feels unimportant to me. I don't think I'll know until my time has come. I feel like we can't know until our time has come. But his story remains and that's what is valuable to us. I love McCandless and I Love God.

#spirituality #ITrust #Earth

Chapter 18: The Stampede Trail

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-24 03:31:30 UTC

Summary: Chris manages to survive in the wild for 16 weeks before his body begins to starve. Though plants and animals were plentiful during the summer season, McCandless was burning more calories than he was eating, meaning his body was in a caloric deficit. He grew extremely weak (p. 189) and eventually grew sick from consuming potentially toxic potato (p. 190) seeds. Some scientists suspect Chris mistaked the potato seeds for sweet pea (p. 191) plants which are poisonous but another hypothesis was that he ate the correct species of plant but at the wrong time. The potato seeds were his innocent error (p. 194). McCandless feels trapped (p. 195) in the wild and falls into a deep slumber in a sleeping bag his mom made for him. Though starved, he takes one last shot near the bus, "serene as a monk gone to God" (p. 199).

Analysis: It makes me so happy that McCandless died in peace and with a happy life. To be honest I think his life was and will be more fulfilling than those who suppress their honest dreams and desires to live a comfortable life. It is a tragedy that he died of starvation and had to endure those harsh moments alone but ultimately, McCandless learned valuable, valuable life lessons such as to appreciate company and other life forms. Happiness is true when shared. I find it interesting that aside from love, one transcends from free personality and giving life as a sacrifice. I really really love how the chapter ended on Chris snapping his last photo with eyes that explain the soul and express serenity like a monk going to God. That sentence was so incredibly beautiful, just like God, Mother Nature, and Christopher J. McCandless. I love that Carine pointed out that anyone who knew Chris knew that he would not burn down anything even if his life called for it. That is true love and good nature. That, my friends, is the work of God.

#ILoveGod #potatoseeds #thetimehascome

Chapter 19: Epilogue

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-25 07:30:33 UTC

Summary : McCandless's parents visit the bus and Stampede Trail Chris faded away in. Surprisingly Billie feels calm and centered (p. 201) and Walt feels more eased than he expected. Though Billie was anticipating walking through the forest as Chris did, she ends up having to take a helicopter (p. 201) instead because the river was still too high and dangerous. She found the bus smaller (p.202) than what she’d imagined and the scenery around it pretty (p.202). Walt, though still baffled why he did certain things, could understand why he’d be there; it was beautiful and both Chris’s parents were glad (p. 203) to have visited. Billie admits her son was very brave (p. 202) to have survived in the wilderness, endured the hardships he did, and not put himself down, and she left a little memorial and note saying “call your parents” to future visitors.

Analysis: This chapter was about closure and reflection. Contrary to what I said in class, I wouldn’t take out the epilogue because it gives additional information to the story, namely Chris’s parents perspective. Considering a big lesson that McCandless learned was to live for others, I believe it makes sense to end the novel on this note. Ms. Moore also made me question where Carine was amidst the visit. I appreciate that everyone who seems to have left the scene are more serene. The chapter ended on a beautiful image with the helicopter flying away and the bus turning into a little white gleam.

#beautiful #nature #God<3

Chris McCandless Reflection

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-26 20:59:30 UTC

After reading the full novel, I feel that I love Chris McCandless. I feel like I was able to relate to several of the things he was saying and many little things about his character resonated with me, such as how he'd give food to the homeless, how he never wasted food, how he thought money was a form of corruption, how he ran as if he was running from evil, and much more. You can tell he was trying to rid of the sin and evil in his character. He is the definition of having good integrity. I know he had hardships with his parents, but he ultimately lived his truth and seemed to make peace with all things and people. I highly respect Chris's devotion to God, his dreams, and his character. Critics can go on making a laundry list of things he could have done better but given his circumstances, feelings, and thoughts at the time, maybe he couldn't have done better. His words, his lessons, his ways still live on to and through us. Christopher McCandless is an angel.

#respect #relate #love

My Future Odyssey

zylai100_4 — 2023-01-26 22:05:49 UTC

I dream about being in the forest with monkeys and fruits beside me. If I’m being a little more realistic, maybe I want to do something where I’m traveling and getting to meet people and engage in really interesting or meaningful conversation that gives way to new thoughts or philosophies. I do want to travel, and I want to learn about different cultures. I definitely want to give back in some way. But back to the monkeys, I want to be embraced by a very natural setting, where I can bathe in the sunlight and appreciate Mother Nature and God. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter to me where I am or necessarily what I’m doing, all I hope and wish for is to be with God and to have my character, my thoughts and actions, to be a reflection of His Love and Teachings. ❤️

#peace #lessismore #Faith