The Psychedelic Tourist
3.01.2004
What would you do to survive?
That's the question which is explored in the movie, "Touching the Void", a drama/documentary of the story of Joe Simpson and Simon Yates and their epic climb and descent of Siula Grande in Peru. It's based on the book by the same name, originally printed in 1988. I recommend you start with the book, then see the movie. Both are incredible and complementary. For those who are visual, the movie will send shivers down your spine as you witness the incredible pain which Joe Simpson endures and ultimately survives.
But, let's get to the question. What would you do? It's tough, I think, for most people to know how they will really react in a life or death situation. When you are pushed to the wall, what do you do? It's rare in this day and age to ever come across a situation which truly asks you to put everything on the line for your life. Most of us live in a sheltered world. Indeed it is for this reason that some psychologists think that people are seeking out extreme sports. Dangerous hobbies are putting some of the adrenaline back into our lives. Even then, most of the time, things go as planned and catastrophe is evaded, at least for the time being.
But when it all falls down; the true tests arise. How mentally prepared are we to take action in the face of death? It's no joke, it's not a cliche line. For some, as in the case of Joe and Simon, this is exactly what happened. Joe was cold, pragmatic, he did what had to be done. He broke his monumental task into tiny achievable goals and just went at it, without getting emotional. Set the task down and get on with the job. Deep down, I think I am the same way. I come alive in emergency situations and I often take the lead when things just have to get done. If my life were on the line, I believe I would just get on with it. No sentiment, no emotion, just practical; asking "What do I have to do to get out of here?" How would you react?
While you're thinking about it, read the book, then see the movie, of a story that is so incredibly over the top you will not believe it really happened. As was said in the film, "The truth is stranger than fiction!"
