Chapter 1, The Alaska Interior Summary and Analysis

The chapter begins with a postcard written by McCandless, addressed to Wayne Westerberg in Carthage, South Dakota. McCandless, who signs the postcard "Alex," speaks of his regard for Westerberg and mentions the possibility that he may not return alive from his wilderness adventure in Alaska. Chapter 1 sets the precedent, which the author will follow in each subsequent chapter, of opening the chapters with quotations. These opening quotations are carefully selected to set the tone and mood for the contents of each new chapter. In some cases, the author's chapter conclusion is summed up by the beginning quotation.

Jim Gallien first encounters Alex four miles outside of Fairbanks, Alaska, hitchhiking by the side of the road. Despite the rifle the young hitchhiker carries, Gallien decides to give him a ride. The hitchhiker introduces himself as Alex...