The life of Chris McCandless is one that appeals to dreamers, explorers, and anyone who are interested in learning how far someone will go to get away from contemporary civilization. McCandless’s adventure, which Jon Krakauer memorialized in “Into the Wild,” has drawn a lot of attention, acclaim, and criticism. The mystery surrounding his unexpected death in the Alaskan tundra is at the heart of this story. This article explores the events and possible explanations for Chris McCandless’ untimely demise.
A young guy from a wealthy family named Chris McCandless made the decision to give up his belongings, money, and even his identity in order to have a direct, unadulterated encounter with nature. Although his voyage took him across the country, his stay in Alaska would end as being both life-changing and tragic.
Demise Cause
Although McCandless’s death’s precise cause has been disputed, a number of variables led to the unfortunate result:
McCandless’s corpse was found on an old bus (Bus 142) in September 1992, and it was starved to death since it weighed just 67 pounds. His journal, which included writings from his last days, alluded to his failing health and starvation.
- Possible Poisoning: At first, it was considered that McCandless may have eaten seeds from the erroneously supposed to be dangerous wild potato plant (Hedysarum alpinum). Later research, however, indicated that he could have consumed seeds from a different plant that carried a neurotoxic that causes paralysis.
- Lack of Planning: Despite being full of young excitement, McCandless’s trip in Alaska was characterized by a glaring lack of planning. He had little supplies and little familiarity with the native flora and wildlife. His absence of a thorough map was especially harmful; he was unaware that a hand-operated tram may have offered a viable escape path over a river only a few kilometers from his camp.
Speculations & Theories
Numerous hypotheses surrounding McCandless’ unfortunate demise have been put forward throughout time. Some claim that McCandless confused a poisonous herb for an edible one, which caused his health to rapidly deteriorate. Snowmelting during his stay in the wilderness may have caused rivers to overflow, making them inaccessible, trapping him. It’s possible that McCandless became stuck and was unable to go to places with greater food supplies.
- Psychological Elements: It has been suggested that McCandless may have had a mental condition or been on a road to self-destruction. This idea is less backed by data and therefore more debatable.
Conclusion:
The terrible demise of Chris McCandless in the Alaskan tundra serves as a somber reminder of the erratic and sometimes harsh character of the wild. While inspirational in its daring and pursuit of authenticity, his narrative also serves as a warning about the value of preparedness and care for the environment.
The unsolved circumstances of his death highlight the many difficulties one may encounter while traveling into the unknown and highlight the precarious balance between freedom and survival. Although McCandless’s motives and choices have been analyzed and contested, his unwavering spirit and pursuit of the truth have endured as an everlasting testament to adventure, contemplation, and the human spirit.
References:
- J. Krakauer, 1996. Anchor Books’ “Into the Wild.”
- John Krakauer (2013). The “How Chris McCandless Died.” New Yorker.
- C. Medred (2015). “Back into the wild once more, but this time with some support.” Dispatch News for Alaska.
- Korn, M. (2015). Outside Magazine, “The Chris McCandless Obsession Problem.”
