While browsing through youtube videos documenting the life of Christopher McCandless, I immediately notice what appears to be his constant state of contentment. Whether a picture is from his early childhood or days before his death, Chris is never without a smile. Confidence radiates from his facial expression, and even through his most desperate state, he seems to be carefree. After reading the book, I know this is something that has been noted by all who knew Chris. For example, even when his food and tool supply was clearly not enough, he seemed to regard it as a non issue until his last few days.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDRy6fmcSzA
But beyond this calm facade was a deep resentment of societal norms. Chris cared for little material goods, instead on a quest to "live off the land." However, how far was he actually planning to go? I wondered this as I watched more videos, and especially after learning more about a backpack Chris left behind. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNyav9g6BJY) The video may not be entirely credible, but after doing some research I found that Chris actually did possess a wallet in a hidden packet in his backpack. In the wallet was multiple forms of identification and $300. First of all, this shows that he did not actually burn all of his money. It seems odd to me that he would lie in his journal, almost as if he thought someone may read it. Second of all, he obviously thought he may need these things and kept them in a place where they would be safe. If he hated material goods so much, why would he ever keep money (which enables all possession)?
I don't think Chris believed he was risking anything until he was on the brink of death. He had a relatively privileged upbringing, and although he rejected this he never actually had to face that much hardship. Even without money, he had a good education and people generally took care of him. He experienced little trouble hitchhiking and even survived living on a bag of rice. Somewhere along the road, I think he acquired the sense, typical in young men, that he was indestructible. He had so much confidence that he wouldn't fail, it blinded his sense of reason. He probably saved his money for his return to society, and the identification for his reintegration. Although some questions about Christopher McCandless will never find an answer, it is pretty safe to say he had different intentions than Krakauer though.
Hmmm- I haven't watched that video yet, but I need to as a few people have mentioned it. None, however, pursued it as far as you noting that his own journal may have been a kind of fiction, a self creation. If he in fact lied to his journal, to himself, it does create a different image of someone seeking authenticity inauthentically. A challenge to accept, certainly.
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