ADVENTURING THROUGH BOOKS & MOVIES
I remember being 18-years-old and stumbling upon the movie, "A Walk in the Woods" on Netflix one evening. Mohawk College was experiencing a teacher's strike and all of my classes had been put on hold. As a result, most of my evenings were spent watching movies and reading books in my family home (a large contrast to how I thought I would spend my early college evenings). Trading studying for nightly movies was not a bad trade-off.
I did not know what to expect when I pressed play. The description that Netflix had provided made the plot out to be about two old guys setting off for a day hike (my expectations were not high to say the least). What I didn't know was that this movie starring Robert Redford, Nick Notle, and Emma Thompson would spark a flame inside of me that would inspire me to pursue adventure (or at least live vicariously through others). The vast forests and rolling mountains encompassing the Appalachian Trail caught me off guard. Of course, I had heard the name but when I thought of mountains my mind always reached for the Canadian Rockies out west. It never occurred to me that the east coast could house a trail that is so beautiful yet daunting, and less popular. The Appalachian Trail is truly the path less travelled.
It is reasonable to say that "A Walk in the Woods" left a strong impact on my impressionable 18-year-old brain. I began doing research on the Appalachian Trail, the story, and the author who inspired the film. For a good two years, I was convinced that I was going to hike the Appalachian Trail - a big feat for an 18-year-old solo female hiker currently in school. Over the following few years, I grounded myself and decided that plenty more research would be required before I could commit to such a goal.
Something easily attainable that I did discover was that the author who inspired the movie (I should note that this movie is based on a real account) is a true adventurer and has written many books based on his travels. Bill Bryson is an American-British author who has written numerous books recounting his adventures. In addition, he has also written on topics such as language and science. His stories are witty, emotional, and educational - the perfect balance in my opinion. I didn't have the chance to read his original story of "A Walk in the Woods" until this past summer, but it did not disappoint. It has been a few years since I originally watched the movie, and I can confirm that the book succeeded in inspiring me yet again. Like in most cases, the book provided a more detailed and personal recount on the story. I have purchased more of his books, and I look forward to adventuring from the comfort of my home using his recounts!
When I was 18-years-old, I thought that I had to go everywhere and experience everything before I became "old" (which in my eyes was around 28). It has taken time, but I have come to realize that there really is no timeline in life. I can travel now, and I can travel when I am in my thirties - there is no rule saying that I can't. In the meantime, I have turned to books and movies to fulfil my more costly or unattainable adventure desires. I have realized that in the meantime, I can plan and dream for my own future travels.
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