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Examples Of Chris Mccandless Idealism In Into The Wild

1196 Words5 Pages

Kyle Yin
Ms. Everett
ERWC, 2, 10
3 February 2023
Chris McCandless: Idealism and Imperfection
In April of 1992, a young man named Chris McCandless walked into the Alaskan wilderness alone and attempted to survive off the land. 113 days later, his body was found by hunters, dead of starvation. Four years later, the author Jon Krakauer picked up on his story and published the book, Into The Wild, detailing McCandless’ story and eventual death. McCandless went into the wild to follow his very specific ideals: The need to be separated from the society that oppressed him. Throughout the years since Krakauer’s publication, people have both condemned and praised McCandless for his actions. One individual, Shaun Callarman, claims that McCandless was …show more content…

Franz and McCandless spent a lot of time together and formed a close, almost father-son relationship. Throughout this time, McCandless constantly pestered Franz about abandoning his sedentary life and being more adventurous. When McCandless finally left to continue his journey, he sent Franz a letter: “If you want to get more out of life, Ron, you must lose your inclination for monotonous security… get out of Salton City and hit the Road. I guarantee you will be very glad you did” (Krakauer 57). In his letter, McCandless urged Franz a final time to alter his lifestyle and follow the young man’s ideals. Franz had led a dull and monotonous life since the deaths of his wife and son, but meeting McCandless changed him. After the letter was sent, Franz “took [McCandless’] advice to heart. [He] placed his furniture and most of his other possessions in a storage locker, bought a GMC Duravan, and outfitted it with bunks and camping gear. Then he moved out of his apartment and set up camp on… McCandless’ old campsite” (Krakauer 58). Through McCandless’ interaction with Franz, he inspired the man to outgrow his motionless life and follow a new, improved path. McCandless proved to be an inspiration for Franz, transforming the elder’s way of life for the …show more content…

McCandless had some controversial ideals and flaws, but the lessons and inspiration he left behind cannot be denied. His unwavering commitment to his ideals is a testament to his inspiring mindset. The unique life he led serves as an inspiration to many but also as a reminder of the importance of considering the impact of one’s actions on others. Everyone can learn a great deal from McCandless’ life and should strive to live with a similar goal: To pursue a life with the freedom to be one’s true self.

Works Cited
Krakauer, Jon. Into the Wild. New-York, Anchor Books, 2015.
Moss, Laura. "Why Are We Still Talking About Chris McCandless?" Treehugger, 17 June 2019, www.google.com/url?q=https://www.treehugger.com/why-are-we-still-talking-about-chris-mccandless-4864060&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1675397361155972&usg=AOvVaw3LJWX44XpguCgvoyC5Gx1v. Accessed 1 Feb. 2023.
Tolstoy, Leo. "Family Happiness." Into the Wild, by Jon Krakauer, New-York, Anchor Books, 2015, p.

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