Desert Solitaire, Chapters 10-12
Terms and Concepts: Chapter 10 begins with one of the stranger sections of this book. Abbey introduces us to the political reasons for saving wilderness environments. In particular he suggests that wilderness areas of the country could be used as a refuge by people trying to escape a dictatorial government if one came into power in this country. Abbey then shifts to a wonderful description of the desert at its hotest and how the animals cope with the intense heat.
This chapter is followed by the story of the moon-eyed horse. Read between the lines of this story and compare it to the author's political statement in the previous chapter. Could old Moon-eye be using the wilderness just as Abbey envisioned an escape from dictatorial owners? Does Abbey walk away from this horse without returning it to civilization because he realizes the sacrifice this animal has made for its freedom?
The third chapter recounts in detail a trip down the Colorado river by Abbey and a friend. It is close look at the river and its surrounding country side. Pay attention to the details that reveal what Abbey finds so delightful about his environment despite its dangers and hardships.
- Reading Due: 9 March.
- Final Draft Due: 13 March.
Essay: Create a brochure as if you were running a river rafting and tour guide business. What aspects of Abbey's trip would you highlight to tourists to convince them to take such a trip? What would you tell tourists they would need to bring on such a trip? What would you neglect to tell tourists about such a trip so as not to turn them away?
Image of the Colorado River near Moab, Utah from the Virtual Tourist.
