Conformity In Chris Mccandless, By Chris Mccandless

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Recommended: Thoreau’s understanding of nature and human life

Chris McCandless does not wish to follow defined life structure that society enforces to simply be alive, instead, he chooses to take a seek a path to live a life with purpose. Such an eagerness to seek detachment from what is expected by society, is enforced by not only McCandless but also Thoreau. A primary factor resembling this, is McCandless’ view that many people “live within unhappy circumstances...yet will not change…they are conditioned to a life of security, conformity, and conservatism...damaging to the adventurous spirit(40).” The detesting tone risen through the confliction of “unhappy circumstances” and “damage,” to “safety, conformity and conservation,” emphasis his will to separate from a lifestyle lacking change. This is done …show more content…

Specifically in his want “to hitch north. Flying would be cheating. It would wreck the whole trip(48).” His defiance to live a smooth live aided with eh technological advancements of society and rather disobey what is expected, leads him to live purley how he believes it should be lived. Moreover, the fact that merely one action from a monthly long trip would “wreck,” everything and damage the purpose of all his time, highlights his dedication towards living such a lifestyle. While seeming shocking, this supports that he “wants to suck the marrow out of life(…)” and truly “live deliberately” philosophically considered key by Thoreau. Thoreau’s philosophical idea of “sucking the marrow of life,” purposely enforced the idea of achieving an independent lifestyle where one make sure they “suck” the best aspects of life out and enjoy all the aspects it offers which are often hidden or not …show more content…

His exclamations against those who don't change their live to find all the “marrow,” hidden in society, shows his passion for “sucking,” the positive features which enable him to ensure he has spent his time effectively. Lastly, this related to “living deliberately(…),” expressed by Thoreau. This philosophical idea distinguished the difference between simply who simply are alive in comparison to one who lives a life that they know that they “truly live(…),” instead of later realising they haven’t done what they as individuals wanted to do. This contrast is symbolised by the comparison of McCandless and the social norm. The fact that McCandless felt implied to not take short cuts through modern day advancements suggested by the “plane,” and instead wanted to complete his trip in the way he desired leads to him exemplifying the meaning of living deliberately by Thoreau. Nonetheless whilst they are both different individuals, McCandless lifestyle and actions portray the life based on the philosophical ideas of

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