Google Earth Community: Christopher McCandless

I hope that people finding this entry realize that prior to the short and intrinsically shallow movie about such a complex and speculative circumstance, that it was based on a bestselling and well-researched book on the subject, which delves much deeper into the circumstances of the tragedy.

John Krakauer (the author) theorized that he was essentially poisoned by eating the seeds of Hedysarum alpinum, or "Eskimo Potato" (or at least the mold thereof) in an already weakened state. This poisoning precluded any possibility of a "second attempt." Although unlike the movie, his conclusions are more opaque, as befitting the true story.

That said, I actually agree and find it likely that it was some combination of suicidal despair and ignorance, although of a more complex yet common nature, such as those who purposely engage in dangerous activities such as extreme sports in order to both denounce and reaffirm their existence.

Regardless, the last moments are still just speculation. Thus it vexes me to see so many people pass judgment prior to knowing many of the fascinating and surprisingly universal aspects of his humanity, even if in the end his actions could be justifiably condemned.

I know this is not the place for a literary/philosophical argument. But seeing this Google Earth entry struck an intense personal emotional reaction. I write this to the others who feel the same way, and to plead to the rest to try to understand on a level more than a Hollywood synopsis.

...Besides, I do not think that casting "judgment" is the point at all...

MikeY

Post Extras