Into The Wild 6-9

Krakeuer is almost too forgiving of McCandless. While he does show the criticism regarding McCandless's foolhardy expedition, it is also clear that in some ways he almost admires the young man. In the preface of the novel, he claims that he is not entirely unbiased, which means that he is in fact somehow inherently biased. When Krakeuer introduces the character of McCandless he even goes so far as to call him "the master of his own destiny (23)". While it is true that McCandless is completely independent, the tone of this description glorifies McCandless. Even later in the novel Krakeuer labels criticizing remarks from Alaskans responding to his Outside article as "negative" (68). I think that by over-glorifying McCandless and labeling criticism Krakeuer is cushioning the character of McCandless. 

My reaction is almost one of sympathy towards McCandless.. Not because he deserves it, but rather because I feel led to that reaction.  I wish he wasn't so blinded by self assurance. Maybe he could have actually been prepared enough to not die out in the Alaskan wilderness. Most of McCandless's story so far has been primarily painted by friends and acquaintances who hold fond memories of the young man. McCandless had people who cared about him, so he must not have been a total maniac. I think despite his best efforts to remain impartial, Krakeuer cared. He cared because he came to almost know the young man personally through people's descriptions.