In the book
Abbey gives a comprehensive account of his experience during his three-year stint as a ranger in Utah. On pages 55 and 56, Abbey explores the various skills that facilitate the interaction between man and nature. Some of the fundamental skills he identifies are curiosity, initiative, and adventurous (Abbey 55). According to Abbey, humans can only get the best out of park explorations by questioning the obvious rather than seeing and conceiving phenomena as they are in their visible state. Ultimately, he implies that even if a man is in proximity to nature, it does not translate into full understanding of the components of nature. By so stating, Abbey paints a picture of precious nature but which has not been exploited by man. As a ranger, his affection and closeness with natural surroundings have given him the impression that it is only those with close contact with nature who can appreciate its beauty and discover more about it.
According to Abbey
the one question that nobody ever asked is why man is not obsessed with space as he does with time (Abbey 67). In this context, the author points out that building obsession with space is as critical as it is in regards to time since it will lead to more discoveries. Paying attention to space and time is a vital aspect of leading a fulfilling life which is the desire of every human being. However, more often, people attach less importance to the role of space as compared to time. Perhaps, it is only Abbey who is of the view that people should ask themselves such a question to scale down the level of ignorance that presently exists.
Work Cited
Abbey, Edward. Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness. Ballantine Books, 1968.
