Question

How did Chris McCandless parents feel during the time he was ignoring them in chapter 12?

Answer 1

In Chapter 12 of "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer, Chris McCandless's parents, Walt and Billie McCandless, experience a mix of emotions during the time he is ignoring them. They feel confused and heartbroken by his communication silence. The parents struggle with feelings of worry and desperation, unsure of their son's well-being and the reasons behind his estrangement. They reflect on their family dynamics and the distance that seems to have grown between them. Their longing for connection and concern for Chris’s safety are palpable, highlighting the emotional toll of his choice to sever ties with his family as he embarks on his journey of self-discovery. Overall, the chapter conveys their deep sense of loss and helplessness in the face of his decision to withdraw from them.