Into the Wild 6-9

I think because I understand why Chris McCandless did what he did and I agree with Krakauer’s point of view, I like how forgiving he is with McCandless. However, it shows that he’s biased and isn’t telling the story in a way that's truthful. I’m not implying that McCandless doesn’t deserve forgiveness, because I agree that he does, but I think the book should be more subjective and based on fact, rather than opinion. Krakauer states, “Although he was rash, untutored in the ways of the backcountry, and incautious to the point of foolhardiness, he wasn’t incompetent–” (85) Calling someone rational and a fool are both opinions. This is not based on fact, he uses some words like “incautious” and “untutored” which are factual. But I think he gets too caught up in it and starts explaining his opinions. 

Even though I don’t like the way Krakauer is telling the story, I agree with everything he’s saying. I believe that McCandless was brave and had courage that we all lack. I understand why people would think he was selfish and dumb, but I think those people aren’t understanding what the purpose of life is. Everyone perceives it differently, and it’s important to realize that. McCandless had the backbone to not please everyone around him and to do what would enhance his quality of life. He didn’t let societal expectations drag him down, at the end of the day I think he truly believed that all his parents wanted for him was to be happy, and he was.