This book does somethng I would have thought impossible - giving me a sense of danger and vertigo simply from reading about climbing. When I found myself gripping the bus seat with white knuckles I realised the writer had really pulled me into his world.
Mark Synnott tells us about his own background in climbing, the history of the different types of climbing, the equipment use, climbing expeditions over several decades, the world of the professional climber and much more. He gradually spirals in on the amazing climb which is purportedly the subject of the book. And by then we understand enough about the people, the technical difficulties and the ambience to really appreciate, and vicariously experience, the Impossible Climb.
This book is never boring. It not only transports the reader to exotic locations and daredevil exploits but it led me by the hand to evaluate danger and risk and the inevitability of mortality in my own life, both statistically and philosophically.
Mark Synnott tells us about his own background in climbing, the history of the different types of climbing, the equipment use, climbing expeditions over several decades, the world of the professional climber and much more. He gradually spirals in on the amazing climb which is purportedly the subject of the book. And by then we understand enough about the people, the technical difficulties and the ambience to really appreciate, and vicariously experience, the Impossible Climb.
This book is never boring. It not only transports the reader to exotic locations and daredevil exploits but it led me by the hand to evaluate danger and risk and the inevitability of mortality in my own life, both statistically and philosophically.