"It should not be denied... that being footloose has always exhilarated us. It is associated in our minds with escape from history and law and irksome obligations, with absolute freedom" (Krakauer 15).
Topic: Inspiration or Fool?
Many may argue that Christopher McCandless is a fool, no different than many others of his kind that have attempted to venture into the wild to achieve a particular meaning in life. Instead, I would argue, that is exactly the reason for McCandless to be treated as an inspiration. McCandless does not accept the simplicity that life has to offer, he challenges the social formalities society has created in order to get what he wants in life. Given he does not necessarily go into the wild well prepared, McCandless never strays from his original plan to use as little money as possible, keep away from emotional relationships, and to live off of the land. It is inspiring to many to see someone find true happiness while living such harsh lifestyle. McCandless proves to all that no matter what life happens to throw at you, you can sit back and find some sort of silver lining. His story may have ended in an early loss of life, but he died doing what he wanted to do and I think there is inspiration to be found in that alone.
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