Brothers,
In a well-crafted essay of at least five, well-developed paragraphs, please give your reaction to Sean Penn's film adaptation of Into the Wild, basing your essay off of the following five questions:
1. First of all, what was your overall reaction to the film? Explain in detail.
2. Interpret various images or themes as presented in the film.
3. What are three lessons you learned by watching the film? Explain in detail.
4. To what biblical themes that we've discussed in class do the film relate?
5. How is Alexander Supertramp's journey a spiritual one? Be detailed in your response. If a specific Old Testament biblical passage comes to mind, please reference the passage by indicating the book, the chapter, and the verse numbers. (Think prophets of Israel: How is Chris "Alex Supertramp" McCandless like one of the prophets? Explain.)
This assignment is Due: Tuesday, May 5 by class time. It must be typed or submitted to the blog.
Your heading should be as follows:
Your Name
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
REL 011.06
May 5, 2009
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22 comments:
Conor Coleman
Bro. Rob Peach FSC
Religion 011.06
May 5, 2009
Into the Wild, a novel by Jon Krakauer, later adapted into film by Sean Penn in 2007, tells the story of an eager young man, Christopher McCandless, or Alexander Supertramp, who has his whole adult life ahead of him, but instead chooses to abandon his settlement in society to pursue life in nature. He revels in his "tramping" life until a few minor mistakes lead to his ultimate demise in the Alaskan wilderness.
A common truth about adaptations of a novel to film is that the book is better than the movie. This film is quite an exception. Such a beautiful adaptation in film as this only furthers the effectiveness of the novel, and gives the audience images to associate with the words. Well written, acted and directed, this film will remain in the film review spotlight for some time to come.
Every scene of Into the Wild can be picked apart, so to speak, to reveal many life lessons within the movie, and I have experienced this first-hand as a student in Bro. Peach, FSC's Religion class. One of the most obvious lessons to be learned from Into the Wild is to be prepared. Christopher McCandless planned to jump into the Alaskan wilderness with only a rifle and ten pounds of rice, and even after reluctantly accepting valuable gifts of water-proof boots, a machete, a sandwich and a heavy fur jacket, McCandless still entered the woods poorly unequipped. Although this is one of McCandless's fatal flaws, it is also one of his mission statements in his saying "reality nothing is more damaging to the adventurous spirit within a man than a secure future." His possible prepared-ness could have been a sign of stability in that he would know where every meal would come from. Another lesson is that self-reliability is not the only path to self-awareness and freedom. This is self-explanatory. One of the other main lessons is portrayed by Sean Penn as the final writing of McCandless, being that "Happiness is only shared with others." McCandless looked for happiness in areas of complete seclusion and was reluctant to form relationships with anyone he met, yet remained unhappy inside. His realization of this was extremely important.
Also to be taken away from the adaptation are several messages within imagery and themes of the film. For example, Penn divides the film into five chapters, the first entitled My birth. This chapter occurs though as Christopher McCandless is a senior in highschool/ freshman in college. Penn does this because McCandless burns all identification and money of his and severs all ties with his family, renaming himself Alexander Supertramp. The next four chapters go on to describe McCandless's life as Supertramp.
Overall, this in-depth adaptation of the novel Into the Wild is a must see, especially in our generation where everything is taken for granted.
Patrick Doyle
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
REL 011.06
May 3, 2009
I first thought that the movie Into the Wild would not do justice to the memory of Christopher McCandless, but I was quickly proved wrong. This movie was most definitely one of the most well made film I have ever experienced. The film was so artfully done that by the end, I felt that I really have met everyone in the story, and that they (the actors) were never anyone else then their characters. Sean Penn is a master of the silver screen. I greatly enjoyed this movie mainly because it stayed true to the book, it made the characters more real, and it did not at all tarnish the view that the book created about Chris.
Chris was always a free spirit, according to his friends and family and the trip that he took to Alaska only reinforced this fact. As our class discussion stated, Chris’ yellow Datsun was a real symbol of his freedom. It was his way of showing people that he was completely independent from society and that he could do what he wanted when he wanted, but not mentioned was that the car could have symbolized his attachment to technology and his innocence, because he completely abandons it just before he starts to really become a “leather tramp”. Also, the fact that Chris decided to join Jan and Bob (or Rainey in the film) shows that he was not completely detached from human emotions. Jan and Bob/Rainey became Chris’ parental figures because he seemed to not know what he was doing as a “tramper” but he was still completely determined to get to Alaska.
Chris’ entire trip would have been a waste of time, supplies, and a perfectly good human life if no one ever learned anything from all of these events. He went out to Alaska to prove that society has major flaws and that they can never be ignored and since we as a people live in a set society, Chris really made this trip to teach us something. The things that I personally learned were as follows:
1. Society is not always right. Just because everyone chooses to do something, it may not be morally fair. Chris learned this early and it became the reason for this expedition.
2. God can be found everywhere. This is especially prominent when he finally reaches Alaska, and will be extrapolated in the next paragraph.
3. Human interaction makes life worth living. Unfortunately, Chris realized this too late and died alone. I personally believe that if Chris never realized that, even at the end, then he would have not died as happy as he was portrayed as by Sean Penn.
Just as Elijah, “Alexander Supertramp” experienced God through the simple things in life. When Elijah experienced the following:
“And He said, ‘Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.’ And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake;
And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire [a sound of gentle stillness and] a still, small voice.
When Elijah heard the voice, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?’” 1 Kings 19:11-13
Chris, on the other hand, reveled in the beauty of Alaska, learned through the simple-ness of human relationships, and finally understood the need for others through his love for learning. “Supertramp” could be considered a modern day prophet because he was the unsung hero who had his eyes opened to the wonder of the natural world and acted on it, but in an unconventional way that un-nerved the society that he rose from.
All in all, Into the Wild was a riveting tale of adventure, action, and a little bit of romance (remember Tracy Tatro?) that has opened thousands of eyes all over the world to people’s dependency on the status quo and on the accepted view of society. McCandless has inspired me to become a person who is more aware of how easily people conform to stupid decisions that were inspired by the celebrities, government, and pop culture in general.
Teddy Larkin
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
REL 011.06
May 5, 2009
The film Into the Wild was an excellent film to tell the story of the life of Chris McCandless. However I didn't think Penn displays Chris as a Christ figure as much as he should. The only time that Chris is greatly displayed as a Christ figure is at his death, which the movie displayed greatly. However the film did greatly show how much he cared about so many kind people, however the question becomes, why does he leave them?
I think it's very clear in the movie that he is not on good terms with his father and it shows what a close relationship he has with his sister. However no matter how much people seem to open up to him he is not willing to make himself and his feelings vulnerable. He seems to ruin his real relationships with the people he meets, people who love him, for his singular and clearly misguided goal of living in Alaska. This is because of the first love experience of Chris' life, his parents.
Throughout the film many symbolic ironies appear. One great image is the mountains, Alaska; everything has a strong sense of achievement, conquest, and freedom, we-shall-overcome attitude that seemed to feed the flame burning so brightly in Chris. Another is that the journey Chris goes on for Alaska is like a father quest for him. Since Chris and his father never respected one another Chris was searching for another type of father…. God.
I learned various lessons from the film Into the Wild; three of these are appreciativeness, forgiveness, and honesty to others about my feelings. Chris when he was in the wild slowly became lonely, starving, and weak, he did not have any of the great luxuries that we all have grown so accustomed to today, money, food, entertainment, and a warm home. I can’t take any of these for granted since I never know what is going to take place next in my life that could change everything. Also when Chris was in the wild he realized on his deathbed that happiness is only real when shared. He realizes that he should’ve made amends with mainly his father. He also feels crushed that because of his journey he has also hurt so many other people which had come to love him but he just pushed them away and left them not on the best terms. This then leads to the honesty with others lesson. Chris kept running away from his family and friends when things got close because he wasn’t able to be honest that he loved them also in fear that he would become broken hearted. In my personal experience I have thought that my heart was broken before and therefore been less outgoing about my feelings, however after the film Into the Wild it has helped me to learn that I should not hide my feelings for others in fear of rejection but be honest and straightforward with others.
The journey is a spiritual one since Chris believed he was called on a journey, his own vocation was to go out into the wild and live off the land God had created. It was the inner conflict, or soul search for Chris McCandless. This brings to mind one of the Old Testament prophets, Jeremiah. The relationship is that both prophets’ lives portray the inner conflict in the soul of a prophet. The opposition to their ministries has hurt Chris and Jeremiah’s sensitive nature and both feel like giving up. On the other hand, Jeremiah’s deep sense of calling to the prophetic ministry and Chris’ calling to the wilderness will not permit either of them to quit.
Into the Wild is a great film and I will never forget its influence on my own personality.
Into the Wild is a book made by Jon Krakauer, which was turned into Sean Penn's film based on the book. In the story the main character is Chris McCandless, who is a determined young man that wants to escape society, his parents, and himself. He plans to escape by trekking to Alaska by means of hitch hiking and really any other transportation available. He does make it to Alaska, but he dies tragically of starvation. My impression of the movie was that it was really well done. The story line was almost identical to that of the book. The movie never romanticized Chris McCandless's journey to Alaska, but kept it true to what may have actually happened. The acting was outstanding. The actors played their parts so honestly that I felt that Sean Penn brought in the people who were close to Chris in real life to act in his movie. Emile Hirsch did a great job as Chris, he really acted as the book said Chris acted.
One theme that showed up was forgiveness. Chris's whole journey was really for forgiveness. When he set out on his QUESTITH he wanted his parents to beg for his forgiveness because of how they treated him. When he was living his final days in Alaska he realized that instead of leaving his parents he should return
and forgive them. He also realizes that society never did anything to him, it was him who shunned it. Another theme was love. Chris wanted to be alone, he saw no need for love. In his final days he understood how lonely and unhappy his life was without it. A very important theme was not to be like everyone else, just be your self. Many Americans today just want to be another face in the crowd, not to have attention brought to themselves. They'll even do the wrong thing just because everyone else is. Chris was not conform. He enjoyed being who he was and outwardly expressed it with his actions.
I learned a few lessons from the movie and book. One is just to worry about the now. "Yesterday is history, tommorow is a mystery, and today is a gift. That's why its called present." Master Ugway or Oogwey or however it's spelled, from Kung Fu Panda. Haha good movie. Anyhow, another lesson is that anyone can make a difference. Even if they never live to see the changes they made. Chris is dead but he has changed so many peoples lives and still is. The last lesson for me was just work hard if you want something. Chris always worked hard at everything he did and he got what he wanted. It can't be that much harder to put in a little extra effort.
Chris is in many ways like the early prophets who advized the Jews. He lived his life to the extreme, giving up all his unneccesary possesions and living with poorer people. He shared his thoughts and wisdom with other people and helped them with their own lives. He was like Jesus because he went out into the wild to reflect on his life and learn from his mistakes. Like Jesus he was one of a kind. At the end of the story he was like Adam, lonely in his own Garden of Eden.
From the begining Chris's trip is spiritual. He wants to get away from all the noise and go some where quiet where he can think things over and have new experiences. Chris was like Jonah. He was so intent to prove everyone wrong, but in the end he realized he was the one who messed up.
1.Sean Penn's film adaption of into the wild was magnificent in the way in which it did an excellent job of portraying some if the really important aspects of Chris's story that we might fail to see in the book. Through the film we are truly able to see the struggles and violence in the relationship between Walt and Billie because we are really able to see how brutally they can treat each other sometimes. Through this we acquire a better understanding of why Chris was disappointed in the way he was raised. We also receive a better image of the intense sorrow that Carine feels in his absence. The small notes that Carine gives to us throughout the film shows how her sorrow develops as the time of Chris's absence increases. Overall, when you see the film, you simply realize that the emotions shown are much stronger than in the book.
2. One theme is shown by Ron Franz when Chris challenges him to climb the rock. That is the fact that we need to give more appreciation to our youth. Before he even begins climbing Chris taunts him in a way that makes Ron realize that he isn't happy with the way he has managed his past. One of the most common cliches is that you can't change the past, but you can change the future. It may seem weird that this powerful statement is expressed through an old man climbing a rock, but this gives Ron a feeling of happiness that he wouldn't have been able to experience otherwise. This eventually leads up to him asking to adopt Chris.
3a. One theme expressed by Chris in the beginning of the story is when he first embarks on his long journey after not even stopping for a second to heed Jim Gallien's important warnings. This shows that you need to think before you act. Chris was not exactly insane like many others thought he was, but he never took the time to make the proper preparations for his adventure. He was too caught up in the good that could come out of it and not at all concerned about all the bad things that could happen to him. His unwillingness to prepare, not the "stupidity" to go on the journey in the first place eventually led to his tragic death.
3b. Another theme is shown through Carine when she mourns the disappearance of Chris. This is that Chris needs to put himself in someone else's shoes and understand the pain that he is making his friends and family go through by just leaving them without even giving them so much as a goodbye. If he had just told all of them that he was leaving, they still probably would've been sad, but they would've dealt with it easier. It was a big mistake on Chris's part to leave them worrying the way he did. It would've made a big difference in the story if he had remained in contact with them, giving them updates and at least let them in on what was going on with his complicated life.
3c. A third theme in the story is seen when Chris's Datsun is flooded. This shows rebirth, not just for Chris, but for everyone dealing with the struggle of his absence. This signified the start of worrying in Chris's head when he realizes that his journey is suddenly going to become that much more difficult. If he would've kept the Datsun, he definitely would've had a better chance of surviving the brutal conditions of freezing Alaska. When his family found the Datsun in the desert and coated it with flowers, it was a rebirth for them because they came to realize what had truly happened to Chris and they instantly knew that they would have to deal with life without him. All the could hope for for him was that his journey was a success.
4. An odd connection that is seen in Chris's story is that Alaska could be seen as the Garden of Eden. They both have their own riches, although they are different riches because the Garden of Eden obviously has physical wonders, but the real treasures of Alaska are more spiritual. Many people think of Alaska as a desolate wasteland, but Chris is smart enough to see that it serves as a place of redemption. Alaska provides a solitary confinement in which people can truly look into their own souls and give an honest reflection upon themselves. Chris needed Alaska to realize who he really was because it took everything away from him resourcewise, but it couldn't touch his determined spirit. The awful harshness that Alaska brought to him was really a sign of peace because in the waning moments of his life, Chris realized that the true meaning of happiness would've been just to have been with his family the whole time.
5. Chris can be easily connected to Jeremiah because they both had to deal with the struggles of being misunderstood. Jeremiah was reluctant to even be a prophet in the first place, and even when he finally agreed to become one, he still had to deal with the sour feeling of constant being rejected by his so-called followers. Chris, however, created his own misunderstanding because so many people failed to realize the spiritual significance of his journey and just took him as a suicidal freak. Chris knew that he had to do what he did, but opinions of what other people would think about if he ever did return probably were still looming in the back of his head. Although it seems unfair to judge Chris just based on the result which happened to be death, you just can't put yourself in the same light as him because even if you think you knew what was going on in Chris's head at every moment of his short life, you really don't.
Michael Uranker
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
Religion 011.06
May 6, 2009
Sean Penn's film adaptation of Into the Wild tells the story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who adventures out into the wild to find himself. I thought the film showed his emotions and problems throughout his journey. It showed the difference between city life and that of quiet wilderness. It takes us through Chris' journey and shows us the way Chris was.
There are various images and themes through the movie. One of those images is Chris changing his name, which symbolizes new birth. Another image is the flooding of his datsun, which symbolizes baptism or begining. Also another image is the bus, which is a symbol of his new home in the wilderness.
There are also three lessons learned from watching the film. One lesson is forgiveness. Chris could have forgiven his father and stayed home, but he decided to go out into the wild. Another lesson is think before you act. Chris knew the wild was dangerous, but he continued on his journey. Also another lesson is express your thoughts about cetain topics. Chris thought that the city was not right for him so he decide on his journey.
The film relates to one biblical theme. That theme is that of forgiveness. An example is Joseph forgiving his brothers. Everyone has times in there life when they need to forgive. Chris should have forgiven his father or worked out some way they could get along.
It is better to forgive someone than to not forgive them.
Christopher McCandless' journey is spiritual because he goes out into the wild to find himself. Get away from city life and to think about himself. The journey was in some sense an awakening because it made him wake up and decide what he wanted to do with his life.
Francesco Speziali
Bro Peach
Sean Penn's film version of Jon Krakauer's Into The Wild book is the story of theyoung lad, Christopher McCandless, and his daring adventure into a society-abstinant and isolated year in Alaska. The movie is very moving as it depicts how Christopher interacts the same way with everybod he meets, and everybody he meets permanently remembers him and his personality. The movie ends with a very spiritual and happy ending, although chris dies, it feels very fulfilling.
Sean Penn directs the movie carefuly as to give it real meaning instead of pure entertainment, something that today's media lacks much of. When Christopher is nearly dead from starvation, and has already consumed the poisoness plants, he encounters a bear, and stands absolutely still. His physical condition as well as mental motivation and health is zero, and the viewer can see how consumed he is from Alaska, and how he very easily could have been killed in that very moment. This shows how his life is on the line, and he has nothing to lose anymore.
Chris's amazing and unique personality leads to an adventure that teaches both him and the viewer countless life lessons. Some of which, can be named right off the bat, such as: Take greater precautions when in the wild, if you start losing weight dramatically, plan to return to civilization, or take means of finding help. These are some basic mistakes, in which Chris had too much self confidence, and he must have ignored his instincts and physical feelings for too long. Other lessons are to let yourself go, such as in a relationship. Do not wall yourself up and never commit or make yourself vulnerable in relationships. Do not avoid relationships for fear of the sadness that will come when they end, but be prepared for that sadness, learn to cope better with that pain, and live life to the fullest.
Chris's confinement in Alaska gave him the atmosphere he needed to truly meditate and ponder all of his thoughts and feelings. He was away from what he hated and what he ewas having trouble with: the societal madness of America, and his parents, particularily his father. Ron told Chris that when you forgive, you love, and when you love, god's light shines upon you. In his adventure in the wild, I am sure that Chris eventually felt fulfilled and his spirit rested from the problems and hard times he endured during childhood. I think that similar to how David forgave his son Absolom, who betrayed and attempted to kill him, Chris grew in wisdom and spiritual control, and would have been able to confront and attempt a new relationship with his father had he returned from Alaska.
Very much like almost all of the prophets, one thing that made Chris's journey more meaningful is that he went out on his own. There was nobody to support him, nobody to distract him, it was just him, and his thoughts and feelings, which probably lead him to a deep meditative relationship with God. Chris did not go out on a love honeymoon with a girlfriend, nor on a family adventure. He went to Alaska to be alone, and to disect what his existence in this world means.
Matthew Miklasevich
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
REL 011.06
May 5, 2009
Sean Penn’s film adaption of Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild accurately portrayed Chris “Alexander Supertramp” McCandless’s life. Chris’s life was misunderstood, but the film of Into the Wild showed the meaning behind his decisions to leave behind his family to tramp around America, and eventually travel to Alaska, where he died. The film’s symbolic themes and imagery showed me why Chris would undertake such a journey, and revealed many important lessons.
Chris’s decision to leave his family was motivated by his deep emotional trauma involving an affair between his father and his father’s first wife, and witnessing fights between his parents. Chris had been moving away from his family relationships, except with his sister, Carine, who may be the only character who truly understood Chris. He travelled across the country in his yellow Datsun the summer before, and, after he graduated from Emory, he went on another trip from which he never returned. Along the way, Chris met many people who he could have maintained strong relationships with, including romantic and filial relationships. First, Chris met Rainey and Jan, two aging hippies who were having relationship issues. Through Chris’s innocence and compassion, Chris brings the couple together. Just when Rainey and Jan were becoming close to Chris, like parental figures, Chris left. Next, Chris met Wayne Westerberg in Carthage, South Dakota, where he worked on a farm. Wayne and Chris shared a deep friendship, and Wayne saw Chris as an intelligent but misunderstood young man. Wayne liked Chris’s adventurous spirit, but advised against Chris’s stereotype of American society being full of materialistic hypocrites. After Wayne was arrested and Chris earned enough money, he left Carthage to tramp across America. On his travels, Chris ran into Rainey and Jan again. At their hippie trailer park, Chris met Tracy Tatro, a sixteen-year-old girl looking for a relationship. They spend much time around each other, and Tracy became ready to take their relationship to the next level. When Tracy confronts Chris with this urge, Chris cannot attach himself to her. Tracy became attached to Chris, but, once again, Chris is afraid of a deep relationship. After Chris travelled across America and parts of Mexico on foot, canoe, train, and hitchhiking, he met Ron Franz, and old, lonely man. Ron saw Chris almost as a grandson, and was looking forward to a lasting relationship with the young man. Chris brought out a new side in Ron. Before, Ron spent his life in security, and Chris urged him to abandon his former lifestyle, and adopt a one similar to Chris’s. Clearly, Ron was too old to tramp around and survive on the bare minimum, but Chris insisted on Ron pushing his limits to enjoy life. Ron taught Chris a lesson in return, saying, “When you forgive, you love, and when you love, God’s light shines on you.” Ron saw that Chris had family troubles that caused him to abandon his former life, and Ron understood the pain that losing a son could cause, having lost his son and wife in a car accident. Ron taught Chris that loving relationships are always worthwhile, and are achieved through forgiveness. Soon, the time came for Chris to leave again. Ron caught Chris packing his few belongings in the dead of night, and insisted on giving Chris survival items, such as a machete and fishing rod. Ron also offers to drive Chris through the desert towards Alaska. At the end of the long car ride, Ron asks to adopt Chris. Clearly, Ron has developed the same mindset of Chris, wanting to do the impossible to live the best life possible. It would seem impossible that a young man over twenty would be adopted by an old man, but Ron needed Chris like Chris needed the wild. Chris was deeply moved by Ron’s offer, but tells Ron they will discuss the matter after Chris’s “great Alaskan adventure.” The following scene was the most moving in the entire film. Chris exited the car, and a single tear rolled down Ron’s cheek. Ron knew that Chris would not return, and he had to go through the same pain as when he lost his son and wife. Through Chris’s many relationships, he inflicted the pain he was afraid to receive. Right before his death in the “Magic Bus” in Alaska, Chris realized the importance of forgiveness. Through a scene played in Chris’s mind, he saw himself returning home and forgiving his parents. He embraced them, replacing the former hatred with love. Chris saw the sun (God’s light) shining on as he died, learning the true meaning of forgiveness.
In Chris’s isolation in Alaska, he was searching for his identity and his place in the world. He was still troubled with his former relationships, especially with his parents. Many flashbacks revealed the depth of his troubles, which explained why he left his family in the first place. One of the places where he searched for meaning was his books. The notes he left on the margins of books revealed his experiences and thoughts. Right before he died, Chris wrote, “Happiness is only real when shared.” Chris finally realized that life has to be lived with happiness, not achieved by freedom, but through loving, mutual relationships. Chris realized that he hurt the people he should have loved, especially his parents. Chris’s great Alaskan adventure put him in the position of the other end of his relationships. Alaska was, at first, a place where Chris wanted to be. Chris lived an enjoyable life, and, when the time came to leave, realized he could not. While Chris could not leave because of the flooding of a river, the relationships could not be severed because they were attached to Chris. When they finally returned to their former standings, like Chris retuning to the bus, life was harder because they realized that the relationship was not permanent, like how Chris realized his life was not permanent as he faced starvation. The once hospitable landscape turned into a harsh, cruel world. Eventually, the situation became too severe for survival, and Chris died. Chris’s death symbolized the pain he caused in his relationships. On his deathbed, Chris came to realize his mistakes, and asked for forgiveness. In Chris’s mind, he achieved forgiveness because “God’s light” shone on him. It is up to the audience to decide whether the people involved in Chris’s relationships actually forgave Chris after his death.
In the end, Chris learned the importance of relationships. Happiness and a meaningful existence can only be achieved through these relationships. This is, I believe, the underlying message in Sean Penn’s film. The film showed how much harm a person can inflict to others through the absence of a deep, lasting relationship. Chris could have achieved great happiness through his great relationships with Rainey and Jan, Wayne Westerberg, Tracy Tatro, and Ron Franz. However, Chris was too afraid to become vulnerable to the pain of a failed relationship. Chris felt like he needed forgiveness from his parents, because he believed that the situation was their fault. While his parents may have caused the emotional trauma that made Chris leave home, they did not see they that they were at fault. Really, Chris should have approached his parents about his problems. Instead, Chris kept his feelings to himself for years, then left suddenly. This is Chris’s major flaw. Instead of dealing with his problems in isolation, he should have developed relationships in which he consulted others with his problems, then reached a rational solution. This is a far more effective way of solving problems, and achieves far more happiness and meaning in life.
Chris’s experiences are similar to the biblical prophet Hosea’s story. Hosea was betrayed by his wife, Gomer, for other lovers. Chris betrayed others by severing his relationships. Hosea forgives Gomer and wants to reunite, but she still remains unfaithful, like Chris. Eventually, Gomer goes through a period of suffering and exile, like Chris’s Alaskan adventure, she enters a period of waiting and faithfulness, and is taken back. Gomer learned to forgive, and, in turn, love. Chris had the same experiences as Gomer, although he did not physically forgive in the end. Chris, in his mind, achieved forgiveness and love after a period of suffering in exile. Chris’s journey is spiritual because it calls us to follow his example and forgive others. Through this forgiveness, love and happiness can be achieved through relationships. Forgiveness is also needed for a relationship with God. God is forgiving, and Chris’s experiences relate to the exile the Israelites experienced. The cycle included sinning, exile, repentance, and forgiveness. Chris completed this cycle once, achieving forgiveness in his mind. God forgave the Israelites after they sinned against Him, and it is up to us to follow His divine example to forgive others, seek forgiveness, and maintain healthy relationships.
Jordan Edmunds
Bro. Rob Peach FSC
Religion 011.06
May 5, 2009
My first reaction to Shaw Penn's movie of Jon Krakauer's novel Into The Wild, is that Christopher McCandless was crazy. But after getting deeper into the movie, I came to realize that, Christopher McCandless or Alexander Supertramp as he called himself, was not crazy but was on a spiritual journey to find peace with society. Chris was a young man who chooses to leave behind all of his problems, family and society in general to live in the Alaskan wilderness. Where he survives until he eat a poisonous plant that kills him.
One image I found that could be interpreted when reviewing the film was Christopher's Datsun. His car shows that he had freedom to do whatever he wants and also when it got flooded it was a symbol of rebirth. Another interpretation that could be made about the car is the name, DATSUN. Because Chris had driven the car from the east to the west, it’s a coincidence that name of the car had sun in it and the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. Also that Chris was born in the east and dies in the west.
With Shaw Penn’s close following of Jon Krakauer's novel Into the Wild, I have learned three new things about life. First is the appreciate everyone and everything that has affected my life in anyway. This is one thing that I feel Chris probably regrets before his pass. Secondly that family is the most important part of life, just as quoted by Christopher McCandless “Happiness is only real when shared”. Chris, before he dies, has a dream that he forgives his father. Chris finally had recognized that you cannot have happiness without mutual relationships seconds before his death. The last thing I learned from the film Into The Wild is that God is in everything. Chris realized this when he got to Alaska and climbed the mountain.
I believe a biblical theme for Into The Wild is forgiveness. One story that could relate to Chris McCandless situation is Joseph and the coat of many colors, because of how Joseph forgave his brothers for what they did to him. If Chris could have found away to forgive his father then he maybe wouldn’t have taken things to the extreme. Which lead to his death in the Alaskan Wilderness.
Alexander Supertramp’s journey is spiritual because he was on a search the find forgiveness for his father, and forgive only comes from within the heart. The heart is where God is in our spiritual body, so with that said Alexander Supertramp was on a spiritual journey to find God. He was on a search to find God in other places an what society tells us where God can be found.
Stephen Stuthers
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
Religion 011.06
May 6, 2009
"INTO THE WILD", a Film by Sean Penn in 2007.
My first overall reaction to the film was a big WOW! the book was amazing but the film made all the words become a visual life for me to see. I thought it was very true to the book except for a couple of names. It tells about a adventurous boy who is looking for the reason behind parents. HE is doing well on his exploration until a few minor mistakes which causes a terrible death.(Poison)
The first image i picked out was the chapter title baptism and the flash flood. The flood washed away his car and gave Chris a chance to start all over. he then changed his name to Alexander Supertramp. The second image i picked out is the bus Chris lives in when he goes into the wild. it symbolizes a new home and a new beginning. a new place to live. the last image i picked out was Salvation Mountain. it is a huge symbol of love. not only love but true love. the man that makes the mountain is a very pleasant man and explains the whole point of the artwork.
The first lesson that i learned is from Ron Franz. The lesson is "if you love, you will be forgiven. It means that you have to forgive tings and learn to let them go and eventually you will be forgiven. then you will be able to love each other. the second lesson i learned is from Chris. he write in his book " Happiness is only real when shared. that means that nobody can be happy alone. everyone needs a companion of a friend so that you can make it or will become very lonely. the last lesson i learned is from Wayne Westerberg. he says, " people are not as bad as you make them out to be". it means that you have to step back and see what people are really about before you judge them and try to run away into the wild.
Chris is like the prophets because he went to extremes to be faithful to what he believed in so he could get done what he had to do. He could also be like Jesus because he gave up everything he had so that he could better understand how the poor lived. If he could not help the poor he would live like them.
Chris's journey was a spiritual one because he left everything behind and went on a spiritual adventure for god. he goes into the wild and he even goes naked some of the time to show that he is free int he wild and he can do whatever he wants, whatever he feels. Chris was an amazing man that suffered an unfortunate death. he will live on in the hearts of others for many years.
Michael Sestric
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
Rel 011.06
May 5, 2009
Sean Penn's film adaptation of Into the Wild is beautifully true to the novel. The story is not adapted dramatically in order to achieve a "Hollywood" plot. Penn was on a mission to get the true message across, and he also knew that to do so he had to stay as true to the book as possible. In the film many themes and symbols are masterfully incorporated.
One of those themes is the idea that a rebellious journey is often a journey back to what you are rebelling against. Chris spent two years of his life attempting to leave his family behind to become one with himself and reach solitary happiness. However, as it is so clearly shown in the film before Chris's death he returned to his parents. Even though he could not return physically he did return spiritually. So often in our lives,just like Chris, it takes us long periods of time before we realize that we need what we have. To leave it is unreasonable. Even so, in many circumstances it is important for us to journey, as long as we come home. Just as this theme many lesson are also portrayed in this movie.
There are a few lessons that are important to me. One is never let your loved ones down. Even if you become angry with the people you love hurting them will not do you any good. It may make your situation worse. The second was that it is okay to let yourself love. The film demonstrates in a most amazing way the relationship between Ron Franz and Chris McCandless. It is sad because even though they share a genuine love for one another Chris will not stay attached, despite anyones effort he will not confide in anyone for long. And finally, the last lesson was Know your limits. Chris's journey was very important there is no argument. However, on this imperative journey he seemed to push his limits too far in Alaska, and the film shows his death caused by something almost unavoidable. Had he decided to keep his adventure south and not tested the limits of his physical health his death may have been avoided.
One parallel that can be made between the life of Chris and the Old Testament is calamity of the Canaanites. The Jews went through a cycle of faith that started with the fallout of practicing their faith and ended with their return home. Chris left his family and their love only to realize in the end that he needed them. This all ties into his spiritual journey.
During the time of Chris's Search for truth he learns spiritual lessons that most people go through their whole lives without ever understanding. McCandless learns self reliance, self sacrifice, and the reality of suffering during his trek to find spiritual stability.
In conclusion, Sean Penn's version of into the wild is a breathtaking interpretation of Christopher MacCandless's search for truth.
Alex Hooper
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
Religion 011.06
May 5, 2009
Jon Krakauer's book, Into the Wild, is made into a movie by Sean Penn. They tell the story of a young man named Chris McCandless, also known as Alexander Supertramp. I thought that Penn's Movie was very similar and accurate to the book. I was very impressed by the actors in this movie & how real they made it seem. In some ways, Penn's movie helped me to understand McCandless better than the book helped me.
An image that was presented in the film was Salvation mountain. Salvation mountain is a symbol of love and faith. It can be interpreted as a symbol of love because in many places on that mountain the word love is painted in large font. It also makes you realize that God really loves you.
A lesson that I learned from watching this film is to share the joy in your life with someone else. In Penn's movie, McCandless is shown miserable because he has no one to share the beauty of freedom with him. Another lesson that I learned from this movie is to call each person by their name. I think the deeper meaning of this is to never treat someone else like you are superior to them, God named each of his children so man could be equal. The last lesson that i learned from this movie is to always be prepared no matter what you do. Chris went into the wild with nothing but rice and a rifle.
The biblical theme that this movie relates to is in a way that of Jesus Christ's. They both had great struggles, tests, and threats, but they both always seemed to persevere and succeed.
Alexander Supertramp's journey was a spiritual one. This is because he is always trying to be at peace with God, himself, and others.
Cam Brown
Bro Rob Peach, FSC
Religion 011.06
May 5, 2009
One of the first things I noticed was that sense of reality that the movie put forth for the viewer. The acting, cinematography, and narrations in the movie gave me the sense that I could feel the emotions of the characters. The execution of Chris' strife and pain was fantastically captured in Sean Penn's adaptation of the book Into The Wild. It was easy to tell how serious Chris was in his intentions of breaking from society. The relationships in the movie are also of great significance to the movie's theme.
One of the major themes in the movie was the lesson that Chris discovers at the last moment. "Happiness is only real when shared." Chris first reasoned that he could only find what he was looking for if he completely isolated himself from society. But it seemed that he was happier when he was around others such as Jan and Rainey, or Ron Franz. Unfortunately, Chris felt that he couldn't open up his full self to them and become attached to them. It took Chris weeks in the wilderness alone to realize this lesson, when it was too late. On the contrary, his quest had been completed in that he had gone through trials and hardships so that he could only glimpse God's light for one last second. This shows that it sometimes requires strife to have a good outcome, in this case, Chris' realization.
One of the main lessons that I took from the movie, as I said earlier, was "Happiness is only real when shared." I also took from it that isolation and seclusion are two different things in terms of relationships. Isolation is a complete cutoff of those around you, while seclusion is taking some time alone to thinks matters through and then to talk to someone about it. Another lesson I learned was that God can be found in the simpler things of nature. This is shown through Chris' interest in the biology and anatomy that was found around him and him using the quote "To call it by its real name."
The expression of God through the simple things in nature is a common biblical theme that Chris' also expresses. After a tremendous storm and earthquake, Elijah hears God through a gentle breeze, as Chris did with small plants and animals that were around him.
I think that Chris' journey was a spiritual one in many different ways. On a subconscious level, his journey was to find forgiveness for his loved ones and realize that it is relationships that bring God's love. Also, Chris was trying to be at one with himself, and through that, being one with God. He used his time alone to find God in anything that he possibly could around him.
Vaughn Franz
Bro. Rob Peach FSC
Religion 011.06
May 5, 2009
Into the Wild, a movie based on the book with the same title, stayed true to the story. It is about the story of a man, Christopher McCandless, who travels on a journey after giving up all his money most of his material possessions and even his name for a life on the road penniless. His journey takes him through the western parts of the USA and Mexico until he finally reaches Alaska, where he makes a few simple mistakes that cost him his life. The movie does a good job of capturing the meaning of Chris' adventure and portrays his story in a light, just as the book does, that does not write him off as a lunatic or an overzealous ideologue. It captures the times of stress in Chris' life as it seems they would have really happened. It captures the essence of the meaning of Chris' journey even though it changed some minor details. Through the superb acting and the aesthetically real scenes it tells the story of Chris McCandless very well.
Throughout the movie Chris is constantly traveling from place to place and as part of his journey he attempts to distance himself from society and human relationships. It seems that as soon as he would get too close to someone he would pull away and keep them at arms length so that he would not have the emotional attachment to them. He is constantly drawing away from people. Throughout the movie he seems to think he desires solitude and being with only nature to find himself. But in the solitude of nature he comes to a realization about human relationships. Through nature he realized that you need human relationships to be happy or as he writes Happiness is only real when shared.
Chris was not able to carry out the completion of his journey after he realized, alone and dying, that to be happy you need healthy relationships. There is a lesson that can be derived from this that human relationships are healthy and necessary for happiness. In order for Chris to complete his journey he would need to return home and reconcile the differences he had with his family, the people he met in his travels, and society. So forgiveness is a lesson that is taught in Into the Wild. Specifically Ron Franz teaches him the importance of forgiveness with the memorable speech he gives him after they climb the mountain. It can be learned through Chris that you need to forgive or you can't have a healthy relationship with someone. Another important lesson that you can learn from Into the Wild comes from one of the reasons that Chris made his escape from society in the first place. He wanted to escape from the consumerist materialist society that people sometimes get caught up in today. Although he does not agree with materialism and consumerism he understands when he is on the brink of death that you need balance in life and he had been living in an extreme. You need not to rely solely on materials for happiness nor relationships nor solitude and distance but from each one balanced with the others. The denunciation of consumerism and materialism is one aspect that many people fail to understand and in that respect they could learn a lot from Chris.
Chris' journey in Into the Wild is not unlike the Israelites falling into the cycle where they fall into calamity through their own sin and then are redeemed by God's forgiveness. Chris falls into the calamity because he distances himself from people, because he refuses to accept help and forgive he drives himself to death because he went to Alaska underprepared and trying to escape relationships and the vulnerability they entail. However, Chris does find a spiritual redemption of sorts with God after his realization just as the Israelites find literal redemption.
Chris' journey has a spiritual aspect because he realizes amidst nature the lessons that he does. Also one of the reasons he began the journey was to find himself and God through nature. He also resembles a prophet the way that they were gadflies reminding society of their shortcomings. He brings to light unintentionally, through the book and movie, the importance of human relationships and a connection with God and nature and the denunciation of materialism and consumerism. He also lived life in an extreme for societies standards as many of the prophets of the days of the Israelites did.
Sean Penn does Christopher McCandless Justice through his spectacular film and through his film he conveys many of the messages and meanings of Chris' journey.
Matt Doherty
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
REL 011.06
May 5, 2009
Into the wild is an award winning novel that has been adapted into a film by Sean Penn. Into the Wild tells the story of a troubled man, Chris McCandless, who examines his life through a harsh trip across America. McCandless searches for answers that eventually lead him to his death. The film portrays an almost sad irony that accompanies McCandless's death. At the end of Into the Wild Chris comes to a revelation that he needs to be with others. He dies sad because he knows the answer but he will never be able to enact his lesson "Happiness is not real unless it is shared."
Sean Penn captured this theme well by showing the many people McCandless touched while traveling. The book is visually displayed in the film very well. I feel when I watched this film that I actually see everything as McCandless did. The film chronologically follows McCandless while interspersing important moments that create the theme.
McCandless is so focused on his spiritual journey that he never really absorbs what is happening. The most important things that happen to him occur on during his journey. At the bus he comes to revelations by remembering who he met and what they taught him. The destination is the least important part of the journey.
Throughout the film different messages are conveyed to the viewer. It is shown McCandless's parents had issues that deeply affected him. This is partially a reason he leaves his life behind. McCandless eventually accepts the fact that his parents are just people and everyone makes mistakes they regret. McCandless neglects that in his absence he is causing terrible pain for his family. "Forgiveness is love" as McCandless eventually learns from Ron. McCandless has seen this lesson flourish through Jan and Rainey's relationship. Another lesson portrayed is to always be grateful for what you have. Chris has people that love him and a very good life ahead of him. Rather than seeing that as a blessing he views it as a curse that controls his life. The last major revelation McCandless makes is "Happiness is not real unless it is shared." This final thought embodies everything McCandless has done up to that point. Isolation does not bring about happiness. A closeness and exchange of life was what satisfied McCandless the most.
I would group the tale of McCandless along with Genesis. McCandless is done with his old life and he is reborn into Alexander Supertramp. In his new life he has many experiences which help him grow. Eventually Christopher McCandless needs to return. McCandless needed change. As god saved Noah from the flood Alexander Supertramp is washed away. The new Christopher McCandless is better than Alexander Supertramp. McCandless is no longer corrupted by society. He can now live within society giving it a second chance because as he learned not everyone will cause him pain.
RyanA.Smith
Bro.Rob Peach,FSC
Religion011.06
May 5,2009
My overall reaction to yhe film was that all though Chistopher McCandless was odder he still had some qualites as like a little kid,because evertime he didn`t get what he whated or his way, he would get mad.But I do know from the movie that his father was kida the same way, because everytime Chris ask his father could he do something he aways says to do something else.
In the movie I did see many images, but there is one that I thing that might envole our God.The image that i`am talking about is when Chris called his self Alexander Supertramp and washing or doing something in the water naked,sysbolizes that naked he came to this world and naked he well live.
The three lessions that I learned was that ture happenss shold be shared with others.If you could fix something then do it and don`t wait.If you are going out into the wild take someone with you.
It relates to when christopher deid in the wild by his own knowage.
The film Into the Wild is a story about the adventures of Chris McCandless. I thought that Sean Penn did an outstanding job adapting the book into the movie. He does not change many things about Chris’s adventures, but he did a very good job conveying the lessons that are presented in the book. All in all, I thought it was an excellent movie that taught me about many life lessons, which I will detail below.
In the film, there are various images and themes. One of the main themes is rebirth. After Chris decides to go out on his adventure, he loses his car in a flash flood while staying in Arizona. While this may seem like a huge obstacle to overcome, Chris was overjoyed because it gave him the opportunity to start over. He burned all of his money, and started back on his adventure, relying on hitchhiking for travel. This section of the film is called “Rebirth” because this marks the time that McCandless completely abandons his old life to begin his new life.
There are three lessons that I learned while watching the film. The first is that happiness must be shared. Therefore, while some people may think that it would be nice to live a solitary life, they will not really be happy. Even Chris agreed with this, as a few days before he dies, he wrote, “Happiness is only real when shared.” Another lesson is that we must enjoy and appreciate what has been given to us. Therefore, if we are considered “well-off” or “rich” we must thank God for the wonderful life he has given us, and then give generously to the poor or needed. The final lesson I learned is that we must forgive. Chris did not doo this until the very end of the book, and it ended up causing his parents to be very distressed and worried. You must think to yourself, “How would I feel if this person died right now, knowing that I never told them that I forgive them or love them?”
One main Biblical theme that appears in the book is forgiveness. In the story of Joseph and the Multicolored Coat, Joseph, with the help of God, finds the strength to forgive his brothers, after they had sold them into slavery. Then, in the film, Chris finds the strength to forgive his parents right before he died, and he died in happiness.
The film must also be looked at as a spiritual journey. Many people describe Chris McCandless as a sort of prophet. This is a very good argument, considering that he spent time in strange lands, had times where he had inner conflicts with himself, and that he died in the strange lands, away from his family, friends, and loved ones. Jeremiah and Hosea had many of the same experiences in the Bible. Chris McCandless suffered from an inner conflict of sorts, and self-doubt, like Jeremiah. He also suffered through hardships like Hosea.
In conclusion, I believe that Into the Wild is a very powerful film that delivers many strong messages about life. The film can be a strong example to many people, especially when many people seem only to care about money, power and fame. The values and lessons taught in the book and the movie can also help us to live a better, more-enjoyable life.
Sean Penn's adaptation of the book Into the Wild, originally written by Jon Krakauer, first off struck me as "another one of those knock-off movies based on a book" because normally, from this kind of book into movie transformation, they usually separate themselves by false happenings in the movie. But Sean Penn made it seem as if he were reading the book while directing this film. His film was impressive to me because never once did he (Penn) stray from the books influence. Personally, I was shocked that this movie actually pulled me into its drift because of its truthful atmosphere, backed by Jon Krakauer's national bestseller.
One of themes picked up in the film was the Fairbanks 142 bus Chris comes across inthe alaskan wilderness. That bus somewhat described Chris' purpose for this journey... To find himself through God's own self.., wilderness. This bus symbolizes a sort of revamp in Chris' attitude, almost like a baptism, coming out of sin into the free, as Chris came out Chris (himself) into Alexander Supertramp. This bus gives him new hope, like baptism gives us christians a cleansed conscience. Leading me to somethings I learned from the film.
Three lessons this book has taught me are;
1. Through all of life's struggles, never let go of who loves you most.. Your family because it may seem like they put you through a ton but they bring you through. Relating to the saying "If God brings you to it, He'll bring you through it.
2. We must learn to move on when something we love or need has been lost.
3. No matter what our lives throw at us, faith must remain in us to support our weaknesses.
The journey Chris ventured through was a spiritual one because through God, Chris found God. Living off nature strengthened Chris' relationshipwith God because by living off God, Chris fell and rose with Him.
Chris to me, resembles Moses for numerous reasons. One being Moses stood on the highest mountain in the land to receive God's commandments. Chris, on the hand, would be willing to climb the highest mountain just to experience the beauty of God's art, not because he had to, but because he wanted to. Moses also made a pathway never traveled on... The bottom of the Red Sea. The traveling on the bottom of this path never traveled upon resembles Chris. He made his own lifestyle, creating a walkway rarely traveled on.
To my surprise, this film by Sean Penn was acceptionally a thought-processor because it makes you think, "What do I have to do to findGodin my life?"
Pat Quirin
Bro. Rob Peach
Religion 011.06
May 6, 2009
Kevin Petnuch
Bro. Rob Peach FSC
Religion 011.06
May 5, 2009
My first reaction to the film of into the wild was that it would not be vary acurate in explanining all the relationships Chris has with the many diffrent people. I found that they did do a very good job on describing his relationships. They might not have been in very great detail but, they explaned the relationship in what they showed you during the film. In the book and the film into the wild show many themes and images. When Christopher McCandless decides he has had enough of civilization and society he decides to embark on a journey to Alaska. In the film they show how chris was not prepared for his trip to alaska at all. Eventhough he is given verious items from many of the people he meets, he still falls short of the proper necessiteis needed for surviving in the alaskan wilderness. I believe this miss judgement is what led to his death. I think if he had a few more items he would have survived. From watching the film into the wild i learned many lessons. One lesson i learned is that you can only be happy when you share it with somone. Chris says this in the end of the movie and it leads us to believe if he survived that he might have gone back home. Another lesson i learned was to alway be prepared. this is shown when chris is in the alaskan wildernes when he runs out of food and lacks many items for suvival. Evethough he died and made many mistakes,his story teaches many inportant lessons about life. Chris' journey to alaska was a spiritual journey in many ways. he learned many lessons and taght us a readers many lessons despite his death.
My over all reaction to the film by Jon Krakauer was what is this guy doing is he crazy like whats going on with him. Then I figured out that he wasnt crazy. He just wanted to explore life. He met so many different people on his journey. Also he didnt like to have to much money he wanted the Journey to be hard.
A big image in the movie was Chris's car it showed he liked the simplie life. Also, the fact that Chris joined Jan and Bob shows that he was not completely detached from people. Jan and Bob became Chris’ parents for a little because he seemed to not know what he was doing as a hitch hicker but he was still was determined to get to Alaska.
Three lessons I learned where never steal cable because you will get cought. Also Do not try to hitch hike on a train because they will beat you up. Also that old cars still can get you places.
A conection that we talked about in class was the Holacast becasue many of them died a slow painful death of not eating and they starved to death like chris.
Chris's journey is a spirutal one because he like finds god and a father figure and that is what he was looking for.
Jack Treado
Bro. Rob Peach, FSC
Religion 011.06
May 16, 2009
Into the Wild, a novel and later turned movie, tells the story of how Chris McCandless goes west in an attempt to get away from the consumerism he was brought up in. The novel, by John Krakauer, tells this story in a very factual way, more than a documentary than a novel. It was hard to see any real imagery or artistic view in the book because (a) it was a real story, and (b) Krakauer told it like a biography of McCandless. Then, we watched the movie. I expected the book to be like a fantasy novel and the movie to be a documentary, but it was vice versa. The movie had so much imagery and artistic stylings that it was hard to believe that this all really happened.
One theme that continued through out the movie was forgiveness. Chris was pretty much out on a quest to forgive. He wanted to forgive his family, for being selfish and lying to him. He wanted to forgive his parents, but he did not know how to. Finally, at the end of the movie, he imagines going back and seeing his parents, realizing that he should have forgiven them a while ago.
What I have learned from this film is that you do not need fancy material possessions to be happy, you only need adventure and love. Chris is a great example of this mantra, because this is the philosophy he lives on in the film. He has love from his friends, and they keep him alive throughout the movie. Another lesson that can be learned is that love surrounds us all, and in everyone we meet. Take Wayne Westerberg, for example. He took Chris in to his home, gave him a job, and treated him like an old friend. Or Ron Franz, who wanted to adopt Chris.Another lesson is that "Happiness is only real when shared." These are some of Chris's last words. He comes to realize this at the end of his life.
Chris is like a prophet who counseled the Jews before and during the exile. He lived in extreme conditions and lived a life of poverty. Although Chris was not taking advice from God, he was being enlightened by famous authors like Thoreau and Tolstoy. Still, he had great truths to speak to the people about how to live a good life.
Chris's journey was spiritual because he wanted to acheive peace of mind from the white noise of society. he wanted to be alone in the wild and be his own man. However, this turns on him at the end because he dies alone and afraid, while he could have been living still away from society, but with other people he cared about.
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