Theme

Theme:

The theme is nonconformity but sometimes one must conform to ensure their survival. In the novel, Chris (Alex) works odd jobs and follows the rules that they set for him. But, in the end, to live out the life that he desired, Chris (Alex) dies of starvation. Even though he was intelligent and resourceful, he was his own undoing. He chose a life that is close to impossible in these modern times and he was unprepared. Although he was not incompetent, Chris (Alex) did not have the wilderness survival skills that he needed.

Another theme is "Follow your heart," because even though this saying is very cliche, there is a lot of truth behind these words. In the end, Chris (Alex) got what he wanted out of life. He wanted to be free and he wanted to find himself. His carefree lifestyle came at the price of his life, but who can say that Chris (Alex) did not lead the life he wanted to lead? He was an accomplished college graduate who donated his remaining college fund to charity and set out to become a man's man. He was rugged, smart, and tough. He proved to himself that he could do anything and live his life by his choices. He was willing to pay the consequences for his lifestyle choices and lived a full. happy life that he desired.