The Stranger in the Woods

Explain how Finkel builds trust with Knight in ways that other reporters fail to. Why does Knight continue to talk with Finkel even after he pushes the writer away several times? Consider the motives for the two to continue communication with each other.

What are Knight’s motivations for leaving society, and how do they relate to the psychological explanations of experts? Compare Knight’s mental state before, during, and after his time in the woods.

Describe how Knight developed his “hunter-gatherer” lifestyle from when he first entered the woods to his final arrest. How did he arrange his campsite? What refinements did he make to his methods over time? 

Finkel alternates between historical accounts of hermits and explanations for solitary behavior from modern science. What are advantages and drawbacks of each perspective? Why are people drawn to the idea of social isolation as a source of wisdom? 

Knight is suspicious of intellectuals who provided profound advice, particularly Henry David Thoreau. Explain why he feels this way and whether it conflicts with his diverse reading tastes. Why does Finkel believe that Knight’s contempt of Thoreau comes from their similarities with each other?

An expert notes that solitude is the “torment” that Knight is willing to pay for his life in the woods. What are the benefits and drawbacks of isolation? What does Finkel find admirable about Knight’s desire to leave society without a trace? 

Knight experiences a situation is are only possible through extreme isolation: months of freezing winters with minimal shelter. What does Knight do to prepare for this period? How does this affect his mental state?

Considering his decades of theft, Knight receives considerable leniency during his arrest and sentencing. What circumstances about the case and Maine’s culture led law enforcement to a softer course of action? Explain if there are any lessons that the legal system should apply when holding and sentencing criminals.