2011.02.27 Jon Krakauer

In the non-fiction novel, Into Thin Air, Jon Krakauer, the protagonist and author of the novel, is a writer for Outsider magazine, who is sent to Mt. Everest to write an article on the commercialism of the mountain. Written in 1997, the author recalls events from his adventurous climb up and dangerous descent down Mt Everest in 1996. Motivated by his childhood passion of climbing and his profssionalism that he has for journalism, Jon is pushed to his limits with his willpower and determination tested time after time as he descends the mountain. Not much is known about his appearance but since he is on an exhibition at Mt. Everest, the reader can infer that Jon is a fit and athletic man, equiped with tools to aid him on his trek up and down the mountain safely. Jon's character, on the other hand, is vividly shown by his actions, thoughts and dialogue. For example, as Jon writes the novel, he often contemplates on the actions of not only himself but of others and analytically analyzes their actions and the reasoning behind their actions, in order to figure out many of the problems and mistakes that occurred during the climb and descent of the mountain. This shows his analytical natue and his curiousity to find the truth of the matter which exemplifies his professionalism and devotion to his job as a journalist. Despite the taumaic experiences on Mt Everest, Jon is willing to relive the experiences in his mind and write a length novel in order to share the truth with his readers. Despite his analytical nature, Jon s often very emotional and very careful with his trust, often leading the problems within the group. For instance, despite runnng out of oxygen in his tank, Jon allows the weak and wounded to descend to camp first. Showing that he is willing to sacrifice and risk himself for the welfare and survival of others in the group.

Throughout this novel, Jon reminds me of Harry Potter. Despte both fighting for survival against a stronger and seemingly monsterous force, both find the determination to endure through hardships and come out on top. Jon, with the help of his friends and expedition teamates struggle against nature just as Harry battles against Voldemort.