Answer: When Jon Krakauer was young, he believed that he deserved everything he desired and that if he wanted something badly enough, it was his right to have it. This perspective led him to embark on a dangerous mountain climbing adventure in search of a solution to the problems in his life. However, as he grew older, he came to realize that his passions and desires were not necessarily a reflection of his true needs and that he had been foolish to assume so.
In the quote, Krakauer reflects on his youth and acknowledges that he mistook passion for insight and that he acted on an obscure, gap-ridden logic. He realized that mountains make poor receptacles for dreams and that his adventure changed almost nothing. As a mature writer, Krakauer is able to look back on his experiences with a sense of wisdom and introspection. He is not just telling the tale of his own foolishness but is also making a connection with Chris McCandless, the main character of his book, who also suffered from the same delusion of youth. Through this reflection, Krakauer is able to highlight the dangers of foolishness in youth and the importance of understanding one's true needs and desires.
In conclusion, Krakauer's quote is a reminder of the importance of perspective and the dangers of foolishness in youth. He is able to look back on his experiences with a sense of wisdom and introspection, and his words serve as a cautionary tale for those who may be tempted to act on their passions without considering the consequences. By highlighting the folly of youth, Krakauer is able to share valuable lessons and insights with readers, reminding us that our passions and desires are not always a reflection of our true needs and that we should approach them with caution and introspection.
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