Desert Solitaire
A reluctant nature writer, Edward Abbey writes of his experiences of, and personal philosophical developments during, his time in southeastern Utah's canyonlands. Abbey doesn't like to consider himself a nature writer, yet he clearly exhibits great strengths as a preserver of nature through his writings. I have currently read the introductory material and first six chapters of his book Desert Solitaire. I was immediately drawn to his descriptions of the desert because of my own love for the outdoors, particularly the arid landscape and natural beauty of the desert. In the first six chapters he introduces the reader to his new home, a metal trailer residing miles away from any other people and anything "civilized." His only companions, the rocks, plants, a few ravens, some resident mice, a snake (and its friend) that he befriended, and a few other more-or-less elusive animals. Abbey is clearly an educated outdoorsman, reciting the names of dozens of plants that comprise the fauna around his new home as well as the plants of other regions. He also lists off the names and classification of many of the geological resources of the area; he names rocks and minerals that the average, even fairly educated, person would not r
Abbey argues that the industrialization of the park system itself is not justifiable simply out of the excuse for accessibility, and that the desire for more tourists is driven by corporate America's desire for more capital. There have been different aspects of Abbey's book that I have enjoyed for different reasons, and some that have detracted enjoyment. I intend to finish the book in the next week, and would not hesitate to recommend it, whatever the reader's environmental preference. I would argue that the trails, already established and unimproved, should stay open to the use of the citizens, however I would also be against any more development. Suspecting this is his friend, he theorizes that his friend's companion must be a mate. Who has the right to use or not use, or limit the use of one group of people? Abbey raises these issues, and still retains the ability to bring a smile to the readers face. There are moments of humor such as the snake incident and other realizations, as well as moments of serious contemplation. Sure, more people will be able to enjoy these beautiful sights, but this increased population will only serve to deteriorate the beauty. His interactions with these animals are interesting and often humorous. The whole event is quite amusing, particularly when they move toward him and his natural instinct causes him to leap to his feet, scaring them off. I too see the increased ease of accessibility as a double-edged sword. ), but I feel that they should be open for people to use. It is a tough issue that Abbey raises. The Arches, once secluded and visited by only a few dozen to a few hundred devoted recreation seekers a year, is slated for improvements aimed at increasing its accessibility, or maybe its potential for providing capital.
Common topics in this essay:
Desert Solitaire,
National Parks,
Pacific Northwest,
Edward Abbey,
Tourism Arches,
,
national parks,
nature writer,
abbey raises,
industrial tourism,
six chapters,
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Acceptance Essays
