Jon Krakuaer: Tourist or Elitist
...un-qualified climber. Since the British first visited Everest in 1921 over 130 people have been killed. Krakauer also asked if Outside Magazine would be willing to cover the $65,000 fee in order to give him the opportunity to reach the summit. When all was said and done Krakauer was given the go ahead to climb Everest as part of the article for Outside Magazine. Krakauer was one of eight clients assigned to Rob Hall. Hall was a well-known guide from New Zealand. In the world of climbing there are two designated types of climbers, the tourist and the elite. The tourists can be characterized as wealthy, goal oriented people for the most part. The typical tourist climbers travel in groups led by hired guides who are paid upwards of $65,000. Many tourists experience fear linked to their inexperience in mountaineering or high-altitude climbing. The other type of climber is the elite. Elite climbers explore the mountain in search of tougher, more challenging routes. They are always trying to up the ante with their competitors. “Getting to the top of any mountain was considered much less important than how one got there: prestige was earned by tackling the most unforgiving routes with minimal equipment, in the boldest style imaginable.” (Krakauer, pg. 23). Elitist’s were seen as independent or solo climbers. “Nobody was admired more than the so-called free soloists: visionaries who ascended alone, without rope or hardware.” (Krakauer, pg. 23). With the previously presented information in mind how might the reader discern which type of climber Jon Krakauer is? Is it possible for a climber to share characteristics ...