I can’t answer your poll, because I find it’s one of those riddles without a solution. Would I try anything like what they did? Certainty not. Does that make them stupid, or even reckless? Not sure... There’s a sort of recklessness that, on another level, you can see was necessary.
I’m reminded of the J.F.K. line: “We do these things not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”
When I was telling Amie this story, she remembered a line from the mountaineer George Mallory. When asked why he wanted to climb Everest, he said “Because it’s there.” He would die in the attempt.
The attempts to reach both poles attracted men of astonishing bravery and fortitude. I’ve read of quite a few, but had never heard of these three brave souls till reading this gripping stack. Thanks for sharing. I never tire of the subject, and this was just so engaging.
Thanks Kevin! This is the first of these kind of stories I’ve retold here, but I have plans for more! Like you I never get bored of these stories of endurance. Incredible fortitude
You’re poll sent me on a etymology dig into the word “stupid.” The root word stupid, comes from the Latin verb stupere, for being numb or astonished. Imagining these men in their frigid and vast landscape, both “numb” and astonished seem quite appropriate!
THE GREATEST ADVENTURE STORY EVER TOLD by Alfred Lansing is a riveting and visually stunning ( Frank Hurley’s photos) account of Shackleton and his men’s incredible journey.
Their bravery is admirable and the impact of their journey on Swedish exploration is undeniably significant. The discovery of their remains many decades later allowed their story to be remembered and given the recognition it deserved. It is a thrilling yet heartbreaking tale that leaves a deep impression.
All the while taking photographs of their efforts. That right there boggles the mind. I know these adventurers were all about recording their exploits but, oy, I don't think it would be first on my mind and I've been pretty into photography in my time.
Beautifully written! Although their attempt might be characterised as unsuccessful, they left legacy and knowledge for other adventurers who tried, adopted and changed steps in the process and who eventually became successful. So next time when you are over-criticising yourself and think you failed, maybe you carved the path to success for someone else!
One thing I had to leave out for length was the fact they had had to abandon the first attempt the year before due to bad winds. Andrée felt particularly humiliated returning to Sweden without launching and was criticised heavily in the press. I think this experience made him ready to do anything other than turn back the second time
I can’t answer your poll, because I find it’s one of those riddles without a solution. Would I try anything like what they did? Certainty not. Does that make them stupid, or even reckless? Not sure... There’s a sort of recklessness that, on another level, you can see was necessary.
I’m reminded of the J.F.K. line: “We do these things not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”
When I was telling Amie this story, she remembered a line from the mountaineer George Mallory. When asked why he wanted to climb Everest, he said “Because it’s there.” He would die in the attempt.
The attempts to reach both poles attracted men of astonishing bravery and fortitude. I’ve read of quite a few, but had never heard of these three brave souls till reading this gripping stack. Thanks for sharing. I never tire of the subject, and this was just so engaging.
Thanks Kevin! This is the first of these kind of stories I’ve retold here, but I have plans for more! Like you I never get bored of these stories of endurance. Incredible fortitude
You’re poll sent me on a etymology dig into the word “stupid.” The root word stupid, comes from the Latin verb stupere, for being numb or astonished. Imagining these men in their frigid and vast landscape, both “numb” and astonished seem quite appropriate!
Stupid is perhaps a tad harsh, I thought folly was better but that’s a noun. Perhaps foolish would have been better. Or hubristic
Fine story, wonderfully told. Just read it out to my sons, we were all riveted.
Ah that’s so lovely, hope they enjoyed it!
ENDURANCE
THE GREATEST ADVENTURE STORY EVER TOLD by Alfred Lansing is a riveting and visually stunning ( Frank Hurley’s photos) account of Shackleton and his men’s incredible journey.
Regardless of topic, a good writer can make you read anything and make it worth your time! Brilliant as always.
Sorry reem, totally missed this comment until just now! Thanks so much!
Their bravery is admirable and the impact of their journey on Swedish exploration is undeniably significant. The discovery of their remains many decades later allowed their story to be remembered and given the recognition it deserved. It is a thrilling yet heartbreaking tale that leaves a deep impression.
Well said
A fascinating tale I had never heard of. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks, Michael!
Brave, I think. I knew nothing of their story until your post, and now I'm fascinated and curious. I shall be book searching!
There’s a book called The Ice Balloon which is supposed to be the best I think
All the while taking photographs of their efforts. That right there boggles the mind. I know these adventurers were all about recording their exploits but, oy, I don't think it would be first on my mind and I've been pretty into photography in my time.
Such haunting photos too
Beautifully written! Although their attempt might be characterised as unsuccessful, they left legacy and knowledge for other adventurers who tried, adopted and changed steps in the process and who eventually became successful. So next time when you are over-criticising yourself and think you failed, maybe you carved the path to success for someone else!
Thanks, Aleksandra! There’s something impressive just in attempting something so outlandish
As very interesting story. I haven’t come across this one, so thank you for telling the tale.
Thanks, Roland!
One thing I had to leave out for length was the fact they had had to abandon the first attempt the year before due to bad winds. Andrée felt particularly humiliated returning to Sweden without launching and was criticised heavily in the press. I think this experience made him ready to do anything other than turn back the second time