Paradise vs Reality

Paradise means different things to different people, but to backpackers such as Richard, Etienne, Francoise, and most of the residents of the beach commune, paradise is defined is the ultimate travel destination. Paradise is a place where these seasoned travelers can swim, sun, smoke marijuana and talk about themselves forever, with few outside distractions. They are amenable to performing menial jobs as a part of being allowed to stay, but they reserve the right to veto the inclusion of any new members to the island. This paradise is soon revealed to be a place where the occupants are not free or safe, as they are limited to one side of the island only, and there is a band of armed dope dealers in close proximity.

The author's message is that paradise is unattainable, and for Richard, it is boring. Richard's languid and elitist approach to travel...