Freedom and Independence from Civilization

The narrative celebrates the liberation found in leaving behind societal constraints, money, and breadlines, as Muir revels in the ability to wander, observe, and live simply in the mountains.

Muir celebrates the freedom found in the wilderness, contrasting it with the constraints of civilized life.

Muir contrasts his free wilderness life with the constrained existence of valley visitors bound by clocks and duties, rejoicing in his own freedom.