An Analysis Of Jon Krakauer's 'Into The Wild'

11. The author creates a pessimistic tone throughout the novel; the reader discovers many circumstances that might have saved Chris McCandless. Knowing that McCandless should probably be alive creates a feeling of remorse within the reader. "...the basket was in the same place as it is now, on his side of the canyon...Because he had no topographical map; however, he had no way of conceiving that salvation was so close at hand." (Krakauer, 174) In these circumstances, Chris argued with his father's, which turned him away from his parents, and his decision to leave for Alaska in the spring instead of staying in Carthage, created a sad irony that appeals wishful thinking.