Joy Glaze, Post 4

The fact that Bryson and Katz do not complete the Appalachian Trail is foreshadowed quite often in the preceding chapters. The most obvious of these foreshadowings, however, can be found in chapter eight. While Bryson and Katz are in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, they find a map which reveals to them the vastness of the Appalachian Trail. At this point, they realize it will be impossible for them to complete the whole trail. Bryson describes this realization as liberating. Because the two hikers cannot finish the trail, they do not have to.

Though Bryson does not actually complete the Appalachian Trail, he still accomplishes what he set out to do. In the first chapter, Bryson decides to hike the AT for three main reasons: to get fit, reacquaint himself with the nature of America (before all the trees are gone), and learn how to fend for himself in the wilderness. Bryson undoubtedly achieves these goals. He describes the way his family is impressed with the new slimmer Dad. Walking mile upon mile, which would previously have been very taxing on Bryson, becomes as customary as breathing. Bryson also becomes very familiar with the wilderness of the trial. He is able to experience mountains, rivers, and many species of trees and animals. Lastly, Bryson becomes very independent. He realizes that he does not need all the accommodations of town. He is able to survive on the bare minimum, most of which is provided by the trail. Bryson’s success on the Appalachian Trial is not measured by the miles he walks but by the accomplishments he has made while walking. By that scale, Bryson is victorious.