Between a Rock and a Hard Place

How did Aron Ralston’s decision to intersperse the account of his entrapment with flashbacks from his life shape the experience of reading the book?

Ralston refers to several authors who shaped his views as an outdoor enthusiast, such as Jon Krakauer and Edward Abbey. Read an excerpt (or more) by one of the authors he cites. What continuities can you identify between their work and Ralston’s? How about differences and discontinuities?

After Ralston leads two friends on a skiing trip that causes an avalanche, they distance themselves from him. Compare the influence that Ralston has on his friends with their influence over him: How do they impact each other? Which of his friends or relatives seems to have the most influence on him? Why?