Wild by Cheryl Strayed
About the Book
Wild by Cheryl Strayed is a memoir that tells the story of Strayed's journey along the Pacific Crest Trail. The book follows the author as she makes her way from the Mojave Desert through California and Oregon, and into Washington State. It is an inspiring and thought-provoking book that explores themes of loss, grief, forgiveness, and self-discovery.
The Story
Wild is the story of Cheryl Strayed's decision to hike the Pacific Crest Trail alone, following a series of personal tragedies. Strayed's journey begins in the Mojave Desert, where she sets out with an absurdly heavy backpack and a vague sense of what she hopes to achieve.
As she hikes through California and Oregon, Strayed grapples with the loss of her mother, a failed marriage, and a brief period of destructive behavior. Through her encounters with other hikers, the hardships she endures along the trail, and the stunning natural beauty that surrounds her, Strayed slowly begins to find her way back to herself.
The story is a compelling one, and Strayed's writing style is frank and honest. She doesn't shy away from describing the physical and emotional pain that she experiences on the trail, nor does she sugarcoat the mistakes that she's made in her life. Through it all, however, Strayed's voice is one of resilience and hope.
Themes
One of the primary themes of Wild is the power of the natural world to heal and transform. Strayed is acutely aware of the beauty around her as she hikes, and often reflects on the lessons that nature is teaching her. At one point in the book, she writes:
"When I walked on the Pacific Crest Trail, I knew again what I had always known – that the most basic and primal way to feel alive is to be vulnerable; to open up your heart, to embrace uncertainty, and to risk everything."
Another key theme of the book is the idea of accountability. Throughout her journey, Strayed is forced to confront the consequences of her actions and the mistakes she's made in her life. By taking responsibility for her past, she is able to move forward and create a brighter future for herself.
Finally, Wild is a book about forgiveness. Throughout the book, Strayed grapples with the loss of her mother and the complicated relationship that they shared. She writes about needing to forgive herself and her mother for their mistakes:
"I forgave her, then myself, then everyone else who had ever let me down."
By learning to forgive, Strayed is able to find peace and closure in the face of her grief.
Conclusion
Wild by Cheryl Strayed is a beautifully written memoir that explores themes of loss, grief, forgiveness, and self-discovery. Strayed's voice is honest and authentic, and her story is a moving one. Whether you're a fan of memoirs or simply looking for an inspiring read to add to your list, Wild is an excellent choice.