They focus entirely on the tantalising idea of letting go of everything. Being free, following the open road, unfettered by the obligations of modern society.

They conveniently gloss over the fact that modern society is also the thing that's keeping them, you know, alive.

McCandless would undoubtedly have survived if he'd spent even half a day making realistic preparations. Something as simple as just bringing a map.

Are there people who idolize McCandless? The journalism I've encountered of him doesn't lend itself to that.

I know people people who respect him -- his enthusiasm and commitment and open spirit among other things. That's different. Most of those people are also capable of criticizing him, and in general, recognizing that one can direct criticism and respect at the same target.

As well as recognizing that far more experienced, knowledgeably, and conscientious folks than him have made mistakes in the wilderness and paid similarly.