Emma Joyner- American Camino Chapter 6

 In chapter 6 of American Camino, author Kip Redick quotes Lewis who writes, “This is our dilemma–either to taste and not to know or know and not to taste–or, more strictly, to lack one kind of knowledge because we are in an experience or to lack another kind because we are outside it”. (p. 240). Essentially, to be fully present is to sacrifice knowledge, or something to that effect. Redick, as an example, recalls a hike he did on the Appalachian Trail. In his retelling, he describes the attractions he saw on his hike. As he explains, he realizes that his account didn’t really match up with his memory of the event. This is due to our limitations in communication and in speech. Because we are all different, with different experiences, knowledge, and upbringings, our connotations inform our thoughts and it is not possible to experience the exact same thing as someone else. In this regard, Redick’s argument is that the limitations of speech impact our stories, thoughts, and our own memories. It’s an interesting thing to think about– the idea that experience is unique, and yet, we are all alike in some way. The complex interweavings of interactions and the implications of those interactions inform experience that determines our entire worldview. I wonder if connecting to nature helps mitigate the challenges associated with cross-cultural communication.

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