Final answer:
Ron Franz learns about the death of Chris McCandless from a hitchhiker in the later chapters of Jon Krakauer's 'Into the Wild', which explores themes similar to Thoreau's 'Walden'.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild, Franz learns about Alex's (Chris McCandless's) death when he encounters a hitchhiker who informs him of a young hiker's passing. This event does not occur within the excerpt provided but in the later chapters of the full narrative nonfiction book.
The book chronicles the real-life journey of Chris McCandless who ventured into the Alaskan wilderness in pursuit of a life of simplicity and self-sufficiency, somewhat akin to Henry David Thoreau's experiences captured in Walden.
Krakauer's book became a leading contemporary example of narrative nonfiction, exploring themes of solitude, self-reliance, and the challenge of living close to nature. It offers readers an in-depth look at the life and motives of McCandless, contrasting his experiences with those of Thoreau, another individual who sought meaning by living apart from society.
Into the Wild stands as a powerful tale of adventure and reflection, prompting readers to consider their own relationship with nature and society. As McCandless's story concludes tragically, it serves as a cautionary tale about the fine line between seeking solace in nature and being prepared for its harsh realities.