I have to admit, accumulating much material wealth from a loving family has always been a dream of mine. Why would Christopher McCandless burn all the cash in his wallet in order to pursue a life full of other things? His mentality makes sense partially to me, but on the other hand I feel he may have over exaggerated the situation; lacking serious contentment with both himself and his own life. What ever happened to being grateful for the little things in life? Ironically, McCandless speaks greatly of gratitude throughout the book, but fails to fully acknowledge that he is making the same mistake of “ungratefulness” that he accuses others of.
Some people referred to this book as “inspirational”; when the outcome of the book results in McCandless starving to death as he hitchhikes in Alaska. This is a story of a perturbed person who wanted much more than what the world would ever be willing to offer. There is nothing wrong with that, but Alaska was definitely not necessary; as he went so unprepared, carrying only one back pack with food, and completely departing from any contact with his family. Because of that, it appeared to be a suicide attempt although the author clearly stated repeatedly that it was not. Although McCandless’ reasoning for feeling the way he felt was acceptable, the action he took towards it cost him his life. Was it worth it?