Monday, April 20, 2009

Travel Writing Blog #9 - Chapter 15 & Epilogue

Weighing in at a grand total of four pages, chapter fifteen is the shortest chapter in the book, but perhaps the most meaningful. In it, we follow Griffin from Dakar, to Tangiers, and a happy reunion with Krystyne. After perusing the cafés of the former "international zone" for a few days, and enjoying one last deep breath of Africa, they part once more as Scott for his second solo transatlantic flight. Throughout the book, you gain an understanding of the deep bonds of friendship that this couple has for each other. The fact that they could spend two enjoyable years in Africa together just proves how close they are, and the trip must also have strengthened theirs bonds.

Stopping over in Greenland after a thirteen hour flight from Iceland, Scott attends a Pentecostal Mass in the local Parish church. Although he has contemplated philosophical questions, perhaps with the occasional metaphysical tinge, this is the first time we see him partake in organized religion.

Arriving back in Toronto, he taxis his plane to the hangar, and walks over to the mechanics area. Sure enough, there's his old mechanic, Dave McDevitt, working on a plane - just Griffin way he left him two years earlier. This is perhaps the signal that Griffin must return to his old life now. Not necessarily pick up where he left off, or change his style of life again, but he must adapt back to something that has become a memory for him.

Scott Griffin's perspective on life was undoubtedly changed by his experiences with the Flying Doctors Service. But that refreshed and renewed him so he could continue his life in a more meaningful way in Toronto.

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