Undergraduate / 'Chris McCandless, an unsettling character' - UVA supplement essay [5]

College of Arts and Sciences: What work of art, music, science, mathematics, or literature has surprised, unsettled, or challenged you, and in what way?

One of the most unsettling characters I've come across is Chris McCandless from the novel Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer. This young man was a captivating intellectual that had the courage and dedication to make a difference in society. Although I disagreed with most of his decisions, I found his adventurous spirit unique and admirable. He had dreams of living off the land, being an individual, and leaving a minimal carbon footprint, all of which came true with his relentless fortitude. I envy the courage that drove him to turn his dreams into reality, which is truly one of the greatest joys in life.

Early in the novel, McCandless makes a bold statement that reads, "You're wrong if you think that the joy of life comes principally from human relationships." Although I disagree with this statement, I found the originality of it intriguing. Being an extrovert myself, some of the greatest moments in life are with family and friends. Unfortunately, McCandless got caught up in proving to himself, his family, and his friends that he was perfectly happy without them.

It is quite unsettling when McCandless finally comes to the realization, while on the brink of death, that, "Happiness is only real when shared." I wish he could've had the fairytale ending where the hunters show up just in time to revive McCandless and his family welcomes him with open arms. Reality is, Chris died, alone, wishing and praying that all of those people he had left behind were there. It leaves me with an uneasy feeling to know that just before his death he realized that pure happiness comes from being with others.

--- please tell me what you think. be harsh!