After reading the first chapter, I want to know your thoughts...
- How do you feel about what you have read about Chris McCandless?
- Can you hear the author or does he seem neutral? Should he be objective or subjective?
- What questions do you have?
Thursday, November 13, 2008
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26 comments:
I'm stuck in the middle when it comes to how I feel about Chris. I mean, I feel sympathetic for him because he died. However, I think his death was inevitable. He was clearly unprepared, as stated by Gallien, and he seemed, to me, going at this 'adventure' as more of a rush or thrill and not realizing just how harsh it would be. I think he was stupid for declining Gallien's help. Although, I think that was partially because this was something he wanted to do alone, or if it was because he didn't want to involve others. Part of me think that something major must have happened for him to decide to do this. His animosity towards the government and their "...stupid rules"(6). Or maybe he's running away from someone, or something. He changed his name and abandoned or donated everything he possessed as well.
You almost forget that this isn't written by Chris. I agree that the author is neutral because you don't really hear his voice. You just hear Chris's story, and I like that he's being objective.
The only question I have, right now, is: What made Chris want to pursue this endeavor?
I like Chris. I find it sad that he died, but I can see he wanted to get away from humanity. He wanted to explore the wilderness and live off the wild. He seemed very ambitious in what he was about to do. I also think that he was hesitant about letting Gallien give him a ride since he didn't let Gallien help hime any further. This adventure must have really been something that Chris was really looking foward to if he didn't want any help whatsoever.
The author is being heard by being subjective because he is constantly stating that Chris won;t survive with the gear that he had bought. I honestly believe that anything is possible. I understand that Chris died, but we don't know the EXACT reason of his death. All that is left to do is assume the cause of death.
At this point I really don't have any questions about Chris. In a way i feel like I know why Chris is doing what he is doin.
I feel that Chris is an honorable person. Yes, he was unprepared and the fact that he did not accept Gallien's help did not work in his favor, but he knew that this was a voyage he needed to endure on his own and not put on the conscious of another people. The fact of him being unprepared in some ways does, but mostly does not represent the type of person that he was. In my research done prior to reading, i saw the preview for this national bestseller novel that has now been turned into a movie. The actor that plays Chris says a quote that could explain why the real Chris felt so comfortable with the situation he had placed himself in.
"I read somewhere how important it is in life not necessarily to be strong...but to feel strong...to measure yourself at least once."
I also think he is extremely courageous deciding to take this journey on in the first place. Another thing i like about him is the fact that he didn't try to hide his education as he spoke with Gallien. "...he was congenial...well educated." {5}, Gallien said, "...He had an answer for everything i threw at him." {6}.
I feel that the author is extremely objective. I don't hear his voice at all...I hear Gallien's. This is great for the story because it leaves less opinion, and more authenticity. It's gives the readers the cold hard facts...the story. The story of an extraordinary and unordinary man, told by the recollections of the people lives he changed forever.
I have no questions
After reading only chapter one, i think that Chris is quite strange and abnormal. Yet, i cant be too judgemental because i dont know Chris's motives, purposes, or reasoning for wanting to live in the "bush". He was foolish for refusing all the help and aid Gallien offered him because he was apparantly unprepared and set up for failure. Although i believe that Chris is strange and foolish, he also seems to be brave, daring, and motivated. It takes a lot of guts to pursue living lonesome with nothing but what the earth provides you with. Because ive only read chapter one, its hard to say my full opinion of Chris. I think that the author is being nuetral because you dont ever hear his voice, only Chris's story. I like it this way because Chris's story becomes more alive and personal.
-Scarlet W
I'm actually genuinely fascinated by Christopher McCandless. He may seem like a stupid guy, but he had such a strong determination that I can't help but admire him. There is no doubt in my mind that he was unprepared for the merciless Alaska wilderness, but he did not care for items. He had such a strong desire to live off of the
land, and it is so unfortunate that the land was not so kind to him.
I cannot hear the author's voice, and I'm glad because it needs to be neutral. Since this is a non-fiction story, it must be told the way it truly happened. There is no way to sugar-coat something like the experience of McCandless.
I don't have any questions, but I would like to respond to Tim's question (:
McCandless admired the work of Leo Tolstoy, who was a novelist who abandoned his wealth and went to live in the wilderness. (I read about this in the author's note at the beginning of the novel.) It is my personal belief that McCandless was simply dissatisfied with his life, regardless of the fact that he was from a wealthy family and he was well educated. I think that he wanted to discover his true identity and become one with nature.
I hope that this helps Tim and the rest of AP 11 (:
-Kali
I find Chris McCandless fascinating. His determination to do what he wants and not let anyone persuade him to stop is very admirable. I think he left to find meaning in life, perhaps he was getting too caught up in the material things and just needed to escape. Even though I think leaving civilization to make it on your own is commendable, he could have been smarter about it and taken along a few more necessary items, like better boots, and maybe some more food.
So far, I havent found any subjective views from the author. He is keeping his views objective, which i find imperative because we, as the readers, should have the right to form our own thoughts about Chris and his journey. I think the author know this and that is why he is trying to maintain a neutral view.
The main question i have at this point is; Why did Chris choose Alaska of all places? It would have been smarter to choose a place a little more friendly.
I think that Chris is trying to prove something to himself or someone else. For someone to just give up everything that they own, change their name, and travel all the way across the map to Alaska is insane but also brave. Yes I believe that he was honorable and courageous but then again I don't think that he truly knew what he was really up against and that's why he died. He was so excited and living in the moment that he neglected to think things properly through and that was his downfall.
So far the author is neutral and isn't expressing his opinions in the story which i think is what is helping to tell Chris's story.
-LeQuita
I don't even know what to think about Chris. He's pretty brave for going 'into the wild' like that, but come on...really? And if Gallien knew he was crazy, why didn't he go back to the police and say anything, instead of just assuming he'd get hungry eventually? Well, you know what you do when you assume...
Chris seems like hes on a mission to prove somethings to himself, its like hes been through something tragic or he just wants to experience a new way of living. I thought it was good and bad to go out into the wild with so few items, its good because it shows that he handle alot by himself but its bad because its just stupid because its like suicide to go out into the wild if ur not gonna accept any help or prepare urself for any troubles.
I can't really hear the author, its more like hes sharing an event instead of telling a story, and i think hes objective.
What does objective and subjective mean in regards to the author? What makes Chris want to go to Alaska?
-Chris L
First of all, doesn't Gallien think it's weird that Chris would be carrying around a gun? I mean if i was going to pick up someone on the road but then see them with a gun I'd deffinatly turn the other way and hit the gas. And second, I like
Chris's confidence and determination but then again he has to be scared going out on his own with no one and nothing. What made him decide to do this? What was his plan? What was going threw his head the second he turned his back to Gallien and walked into the unknown? I'm getting interested in this book and it has only been 4 pages. I am not quite sure what objective and subjective mean though so I can't put out my opinion on that.
Alyssa S.
After reading more, I found out that McCandless desires to go to Alaska because of Jack London's writings about the place. He makes it sound better than it actually is, and it tricks McCandless into thinking it will be a rewarding adventure.
I thought that Chris was a very brave person because he went through his adventure alone. It's sad that he died but he died by doing what he wanted.
I can hear the author sometimes but not all the time. I think he is mostly neutral.
I think he should be objective because he shouldn't make judgements on Chris. Why did Chris want to go on this adventure.
Danielle S.
My feelings about Chris and his "adventure" are divided, just as Tim's. I feel that he was very ill prepared and he knew this, yet he declined help and he didn't do anything about his necessities. On the other hand, I think that if he felt he needed to do this then there was no stopping him. Just as Thoreau said in "Walden", he wants to do this, perhaps to find his purpose of life and doesn't care what it takes, even if it means he will die.
I also think it’s a type of rebellion because of his lack of respect for the government and its rules. If he lives out of society, he technically doesn’t have to follow any of the “stupid rules” (6) that he is sick of.
I agree with Ty about how the author gets lost and you can only hear the story. It definitely leaves room for your own opinion about Chris and his story instead of being clouded by what the author thinks.
Az
I feel the same way as everyone else about Chris. Its sad that he died yet he did know what he was getting himself into. With knowing he should of brought more and put more thought of what life would be in that situation. I didn't like that he didn't accept Hallien's help, and that he wasn't really concern about what happened happening.
To me the author is staying objective; and I like that.
I don't have any questions yet
Kathi
Everybody is saying that he was courageous and was brave and they're sympathetic that he died.. blah blah blah. I think Chris was STUPID. He was a rich kid that probably got bored or mad at his parents, as all rich kids do at one point or another, and ran away. He got in way over his head and messed up. Too bad. He wanted to be a "hero" and show his family that he didnt need them. Well he was clearly wrong. A lot of yall make the comment that yall like Chris and I think that's bull. He's an idiot. I like the Chris in the movie. BUT we all know that the Chris in the movie is probably NOTHING like the real Chris. Watching the previews before reading the book screws up your image of him. You think he's some great big inspiring person, when he probably wasnt! He just wanted to be "different" from his rich and probably stuck up family.
-Destini S.
My feelings about chris is he did what he felt he had to do. For some people a materialistic lifestyle corrupts people and i kow the feeling. I rather live with my mom and have $20 that is supposed to last for five days than live with my dad who says "I cant afford it right now" and then buys a new Lexus and remodels his kitchen and who tells me first, my grandma. I feel that he did it for his own sanity and that who knows what he may have done if he hadnt escaped. He knew he may die when he went to alaska but in his mind, i think he didnt care if he lived or died, He just wanted the simple life where money and everything it buys doesnt exist and where he could be free.
-Ashton H.
So, personally. i think that this book is going to be interesting. I like how the author is telling the story with out and opinionated view.. and even though we ALREADY know the ending [which i think is kind of dumb] i like the book so far.
As for chris, i agree with destini. i think he's dumb. i mean i can understand having ambition and a dream to go out and brave the wilderness... but seriously, BRING SOME SUPPLIES!! he has all the money in the world and he can't bring the right snow boots. i understand that he wants to leave all his money and whatever behind, but can't he do that AFTER he's gone shopping for his little adventure trip?
AND ALSO.. i'd like to point out that on the cover of the book it kind of says the first paragraph under the picture of the bus, but if you read it and then read the first few paragraphs of the story, you'll realize that the cover says he gave "25000 dollars to charity" and the inside of the book says he gave "24000 dollars to charity"... TYPO?
just thought it point it out :)
I completely agree with Tim that I'm torn between undersatnding Chris but also thinking that he is a little bit crazy.I understand him because sometimes I think that people wonder what it would be like to live outside of this society. But I think he is crazy because he is actually going to do it!He doesn't have any experience in living in the wild besides the fact that he has seen it on T.V and read it in books. I begin to understand him again because I can see that it is in his personality.
I think that the author is neutral because he wants us to develop our own standing point when it comes to looking at Chris as a person.
I do question did he really think that he could survive out in the wild without any knowledge or experience?
I think Chris is a really smart guy, but he doesn't quite think things through almost. I mean, he has common sense, and he knows all about it. But he just knows all of the book stuff. He knows what the books say should happen, what he should do. If he runs into something that he hasn't really read up on or something, he's kinda screwed. Or if it doesn't go like it's supposed, what is he gonna do?
Haha, sorry. I accidently clicked send too early on that last one.
The Author comes through to me, a lot. I mean he seems like he always his praising or condemning something Chris does.
In this kind of story, I don't think you should have that bias.
I thought the two-column notes were extremely helpful in understanding the book. Especially the ones about the "material excess." It shows a lot about 'Alex's' character. He gives many people advice on topics, but when it comes to taking advice himself, he won't. He knows what he wants to do, and how he wants to accomplish his goals. "The very basic core..." was also a very interesting way to look at things. He is basically saysing if you don't get out- you're not living, and if you're not living-you're dying. The belt stuck out to me. It was his transformation. The left side goes in first, which is the start of his journey, with ALEX engraved. This book is getting really interesting, and I think the author captured a lot of important events.
-Kelsey Heath
I think that Chris is stupid. I agree with Destini about Chris being a a rich kid who got bored or mad and left. He didn't want to fix things so he gave up and ran away.I really want to know what happened with Chris and his family to make things so bad to the point where he went into the wild with almost nothing, then when people tried to help him he didn't accept their help. Chris should take peopels advice and accept at least a good pair of boots. I honestly think Chris is stupid and he may be book smart but he is not intellegent.
I think that Chris was pretty stupid for taking just the little amount of stuff he did out into the freezing cold wilderness of Alaska. If I randomly decided to try to live in the back country of Alaska I would have had tons of coats, jackets objective, & blankets to keep me warm. Anybody who knows me knows that I eat A LOT. I wouldn't be able to fit the amount of food I could eat in a day in just one bag on my back. I would have wheeled a couple suitcases full out there & even that probably wouldn't last me a week. He should have been better prepared and maybe he would still be alive.
I believe that the author in neutral and objective because I never once remember him saying anything that would involve him agreeing with Chris' choice to go to the back country of Alaska or Jim Gallien's comments about how little of a loud he was carrying out there.
I only have two questions.
1) What caused Chris to want to go out into the back country of Alaska?
Um so...I agree with the kids who said that Chris McCandless is stupid. He may be 'book smart' but he's a moron when it comes to common sense. Everyone has certain aspirations, some more extreme than others, but I believe that he took his a little too far.
It's kind of cool that he could live off the wild for so long, but he should have been smart enough to know that sooner or later it would be too much.
Another thing I have to say about him is that he is a VERY SELFISH guy. Everyone has, at some point in their lives, hated their parents and as soon as they were old enough they would run from them. Was his life really THAT bad though? So what if your parents don't understand you? That doesn't mean you should leave and never talk to them again and not even tell them where you are. So many people have it really bad yet they don't run away from it. Yeah I know 'well that's their problem', but I mean come on...I DON'T EVEN HAVE A CAR..........AND HIS PARENTS WANT TO BUY HIM A BETTER ONE!!!!
From the family's perspective, I would be extremely sad(for lack of a better word)if someone I love and cared about for so long just vanished.
However it was nice of him to give the money to charity.
BOTTOM LINE IS---->he's dumb, but has guts.
=]
I feel like Chris is very sure of himself. Yeah, he may be throwing his life away, in some peoples eyes, but i admire the fact that he is so sure of himself and so determined to do what he wants to do. You don't see such a strong determination to that extreme today. Most people are just not as determined to leave their comfort zone.
The author seems neutral at this point because there is dialogue during chapter one allowing the voice of the author to seem as if its not there, and make chapter one seem like a conversation, just with brief descriptions of setting and characters.
He should be objective so we can get a true grasp on setting and character tone, and details to show that the events have really happened, even with the slight improvising the author might have done because not sure exactly how the conversations had went.
The only question I really had was, why did he become so sure of wanting to leave everything behind him and go off "Into the wild"...?;)
I don't think Chris is stupid! I think he just wants a new life. He wants to explore and express! That's all!
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