Joy Glaze, Post 3

At this point in the story, Bryson has learned the value of companionship. Bryson has realized that walking the trail is a much more enjoyable experience when he has a friend to accompany him. So far, Bryson has hiked with two main companions: Stephen Katz and Bill Abdu. Katz is the first to join Bryson, and although the two men have their rough spots, Katz turns out to be a valuable companion. At the beginning, it seems as if Katz might not make it; he throws most of his food and equipment into a ravine when he is consumed by a fit of frustration. As the hiking progresses, however, Katz grows accustomed to the difficulties and eventually becomes as capable a hiker as Bryson.

After a break, Bryson decides to continue hiking on his own until Katz is able to rejoin him for the last portion of the trail. This decision is not Bryson’s best, as he soon realizes. Bryson is not only lonely but also rather on edge about being in the woods alone. In chapter 14, Bryson is at the top of Piney Mountain when he hears a twig snap. He is so frightened that he runs for his life, only to realize that the noise came from a deer.

In chapter 17, When Bryson learns that Abdu will be joining him for some day hikes in New Hampshire, he is quite relieved. Bryson is apprehensive about taking on the state’s White Mountains by himself, and the company of Abdu proves to be very beneficial. If Bryson had been hiking alone when he began to suffer from hypothermia, he might not have made it to the mountain’s base alive. Bryson has certainly learned the significance of camaraderie through his travels on the Appalachian Trail.