Analysis

By flashing forward to McCandless’s death, Krakauer intensifies the drama of his story. He reminds us that McCandless’s adventure ends tragically. In addition, the author emphasizes the young man’s connections to those whose lives he touched: friends Gallien and Westerberg, as well as MCandless’s relatives.

The prior two chapters have emphasized McCandless’s commonalities with others who have sought adventure and solitude in the wild. This short chapter reminds us that, although it was not unique, McCandless’s story was noteworthy, newsworthy — it was covered not only in Alaska but in the national press.