Chapter IX Annapurna Summary and Analysis

It is now May 23rd and the day dawns brightly. For the first time, the climbers have a clear view of the upper portion of Annapurna and their enthusiasm almost overwhelms their assessment of the difficulties. Herzog listens to the opinions of his team on the possible further route and is pleased to find they all seem to share his same assessment of how they should go.

They are eager to get started. The monsoon, an annual storm system, is expected in early June, so time is running out. Much of their equipment is still back in Tukucha, awaiting the formation of a final plan. Herzog writes up orders to move all the needed supplies and equipment to establish a new base camp in support of this route, and sends Sarki back with the message. They have...