The book, Into the Wild, was full of many themes to make the reader think. The actions of other people, along with passages, actually changed my view on the essential question; how shall we live? Through the story of Chris McCandless, also known as Alex Supertramp, I was able to really assess the way that I answer that question, and have found new answers for it in this novel. Into the Wild has influenced my views in several ways.
One of the biggest themes in the novel, as well in other texts and materials we have studied, was to seize the day, and do what you want to do with your life. After thinking about this, I have realized how important it is to do this. I have come to the frightening realization that I only have one chance at life. If I do not use it to the fullest, and do what it is that I dream of doing, I will never have the chance again. The part of the book that really helped me to see this was in Alex's letter to Ron Franz, on page 56-58. He tells Ron that, "You are still going to live a long time, Ron, and it would be a shame if you did not take the opportunity to revolutionize your life and move into an entirely new realm of experience." At that time, Ron was living a secure, conservative life, with no sense of adventure. Before this, Alex was living a similar life, but decided to quit college and explore the country. In his letters and journal, he constantly noted how happy he was to be doing what he wanted to do in his life. I don't think that I would be willing to go to the extreme that Alex did. I wouldn't give up everything that I had, my car, money, and education. I would probably be more inclined to do something like Sarah, and hike the Appalachian Trail. I do agree with Alex though, and I feel much the same about seizing the day. Since reading this book, I have already begun to look at my priorities, and see what it is that I want to do with my life. I plan to follow my dreams, and try not to fall into a conformed lifestyle.