Matthew Guzdial: Post 2

When analyzing any literary work, it is important to identify the author’s purpose. In his novel, Bryson takes intermittent breaks in the storyline to speak directly to his audience in order to give information concerning the history or background information relating to whatever it is that he and Katz are currently doing, or areas they are reaching. These asides are each included for a separate reason, though generally as an attempt by the author to allow the audience better to understand the majesty and varied nature of the Appalachian Trail. A good example of this type of side note occurs in chapter seven when Bryson spends a large amount of time to describe the rich plant and animal life of the Smoky Mountains, information that his audience would otherwise not have, and which would therefore decrease their understanding of his awe of the Smokies, such as when Bryson calls them “A Very Eden.”

However, this is the not the only reason for the author’s asides, such as back in chapter five when Bryson spends a short period explaining the 1970 novel, Deliverance, by James Dickey. This aside, unlike the generally sarcastic yet serious tone of the environmental ones, is entirely placed there for comedic effect. Bryson’s descriptions of the book description of the “demented backwoodsmen” leaves the audience wondering if perhaps Bryson himself will run into one of these homicidal rednecks and adds further poignancy in the motel scene with the silent woman.