Christopher McCandless, the enigmatic figure popularized by Jon Krakauer’s “Into the Wild,” is known for his journey of self-discovery and his tragic end in the Alaskan wilderness. His time spent in an abandoned bus, now famously referred to as “Bus 142,” was marked by solitude, reflection, and a profound connection to the books he carried. Among these, Leo Tolstoy’s “Family Happiness” and Jack London’s “The Call of the Wild” were particularly significant. However, one book stands out as a crucial companion during his final days: “Tanaina Plantlore” by Priscilla Russell Kari.
This article explores the reading materials that shaped McCandless’s journey,what book did chris mccandless read while in the bus and his intellectual influences, and the deeper meanings derived from these texts.
Chris McCandless and His Love for Literature
Chris McCandless, also known by his self-given name Alexander Supertramp, was a voracious reader who found solace and meaning in literature. McCandless sought inspiration from the works of authors who championed individuality, adventure, and a rejection of materialism. Books were not merely entertainment for him; they were guides and companions in his quest for a life unbound by societal norms.
Authors such as Jack London, Leo Tolstoy, and Henry David Thoreau profoundly influenced McCandless’s philosophy. Their works resonated with his ideals of simplicity, self-reliance, and the pursuit of truth. For McCandless, literature provided the framework to interpret his experiences and the courage to embark on his Alaskan adventure.
Books Found with Chris McCandless in the Bus
When Chris McCandless’s body was discovered in Bus 142 in August 1992, several books were found among his belongings. These texts reveal much about his intellectual journey and his attempt to live off the land. Notable books included:
- “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer
While Krakauer’s book immortalized McCandless’s story, Chris himself was deeply inspired by Krakauer’s essays and exploration of survival. Although Krakauer’s book came after McCandless’s death, it captures the essence of the texts Chris cherished. - “Tanaina Plantlore” by Priscilla Russell Kari
This practical guide to edible plants of Alaska became a critical resource for McCandless. It detailed local flora, providing guidance on identifying and using wild plants for sustenance. Unfortunately, a tragic misinterpretation of this text may have contributed to his demise. - “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy
McCandless was deeply influenced by Tolstoy’s philosophy, particularly his emphasis on spiritual enlightenment and simplicity. Passages from Tolstoy’s works were annotated heavily, reflecting McCandless’s introspection and moral questioning. - “The Call of the Wild” by Jack London
Jack London’s portrayal of the wilderness and the untamed spirit deeply resonated with McCandless. This book served as both a romanticized view of nature and a cautionary tale.
The Role of “Tanaina Plantlore” in McCandless’s Survival
“Tanaina Plantlore” played a pivotal role in Chris McCandless’s attempt to live off the Alaskan wilderness. The book, written by ethnobotanist Priscilla Russell Kari, is a comprehensive guide to the native plants of Alaska, detailing their uses for food, medicine, and other practical purposes.
McCandless relied on this book to forage for edible plants. Among his annotations, he identified plants like wild potato roots (Hedysarum alpinum) and other edible greens. Tragically, McCandless reportedly consumed seeds of the wild sweet pea (Hedysarum mackenzii) that he believed to be safe. Later analysis suggested these seeds may have been toxic due to the presence of ODAP (oxalyldiaminopropionic acid), leading to his physical deterioration and eventual death.
This misstep underscores the risks of foraging without complete knowledge and highlights how critical proper understanding of plant identification is in survival scenarios.
Jon Krakauer’s Perspective on McCandless’s Reading Habits
Jon Krakauer’s “Into the Wild” explores McCandless’s intellectual influences in depth, shedding light on his reliance on literature as a moral and practical compass. Krakauer emphasized that McCandless’s reading was not passive; it was interactive. Chris underlined passages, wrote notes in margins, and used the texts to validate his philosophical beliefs.
Krakauer noted that McCandless’s readings often mirrored his actions. For example, Thoreau’s “Walden” inspired his desire to escape societal constraints and embrace a life of solitude. Similarly, Tolstoy’s teachings about asceticism and spiritual awakening reinforced his rejection of material wealth.
McCandless’s Connection to Jack London’s “The Call of the Wild”
Among McCandless’s favorite authors, Jack London stood out as a beacon of inspiration. “The Call of the Wild” epitomized the untamed spirit that McCandless aspired to embody. London’s vivid descriptions of the harsh Alaskan wilderness resonated deeply with McCandless, fueling his determination to experience the wild firsthand.
Ironically, while McCandless admired London’s celebration of survival and primal instincts, he may have overlooked the cautionary aspects of London’s tales. Jack London’s stories often emphasized the mercilessness of nature and the thin line between survival and peril—a reality McCandless ultimately confronted.
How Literature Shaped McCandless’s Ideals
For Chris McCandless, books were more than just entertainment; they were lifelines, offering insight, guidance, and a deeper understanding of life’s complexities. His favorite authors shaped his worldview in the following ways:
- Henry David Thoreau: Encouraged his pursuit of simplicity and self-reliance.
- Leo Tolstoy: Reinforced his spiritual quest and rejection of material wealth.
- Jack London: Romanticized the wilderness while warning of its dangers.
McCandless’s annotations and reflections reveal his struggle to reconcile idealism with the harsh realities of living off the land.
What McCandless’s Reading Choices Reveal About Him
The books Chris McCandless read during his time in the bus reveal a young man searching for meaning, authenticity, and connection. His selection of texts reflects his desire to strip life down to its essentials, live deliberately, and find truth in solitude.
Yet, his tragic fate also underscores the limitations of intellectual preparation alone. McCandless’s story serves as a poignant reminder that while books can inspire and guide, survival in the wild demands practical experience, adaptability, and humility.
Legacy of Chris McCandless and His Love for Books
The story of Christopher McCandless continues to captivate readers and adventurers alike. His time spent in Bus 142 and his reliance on books highlight the enduring power of literature to shape lives. While his journey ended in tragedy, his intellectual pursuits and spiritual quest resonate with those who seek meaning beyond societal conventions.
McCandless’s life is both a cautionary tale and an inspiration—a testament to the human spirit’s longing for freedom, self-discovery, and connection with nature.
