Does Krakauer have an acceptable background to speak with authority on this subject? Why or why not?
Climbing dangerous mountains like Devil's Thumb was a form of counter-culture escapism for Krakauer. Krakauer’s feelings while climbing the Devils Thumb, and is, essentially, his explanation of the allure of mountain climbing, or of high-risk activities in general. It becomes clear, here, that it serves as a kind of escapism, for him at least. The intense focus required to survive such activities means that the mundane problems of daily life cannot intrude, and Krakauer can reach a kind of meditative state.
McCandless’s treks are also clearly escapism on some level. He seems to be trying to escape from the responsibilities and bonds of human relationships; by going into the wild, alone, with no way to contact the outside world, and by having to focus his full attention on keeping himself alive, he cannot be called on to participate in relationships with those who care most about him.
