Brian's Return

The author’s note at the end of the novel reveals that although he lived in a house or town for different seasons of his life, like Brian, Paulsen always felt the most at home living simply in the woods. In the novel, Paulsen imparts that keeping things simple is often best.

One way Paulsen emphasizes simplicity is through Brian’s choice of gear. Brian’s inventory list shows the careful decisions he makes about what to bring and reveals his preference for the most natural way rather than the easiest. For example, bringing a gun would make hunting efficient, but Brian prefers a bow because it minimizes noise and is fairer to the animals. Even when choosing a bow, he doesn’t select the most powerful or the most technologically advanced type; he opts for a simple, yet accurate bow because this is all he needs. The list shows Brian’s preference for simple gear that is effective and allows him to remain connected to nature.

Paulsen also highlights the beauty of simplicity through other characters such as Caleb and the fisherman Brian rides with in the plane. When Brian meets these characters, he expects them to be bothersome and nothing like him. However, in both instances, his expectations are proven wrong. Caleb is direct and matter-of-fact when he speaks to Brian. He keeps the story of his sudden blindness simple rather than going into the medical terms, and when he listens to Brian’s stories about the woods, he responds with simple and heartfelt observations. Brian respects Caleb for his unpretentious and kind ways, and the reader is encouraged to do the same. Furthermore, when Brian meets the fishermen, he is surprised to see that their gear is not fussy; it’s well-worn and well cared for. When he talks to them on the plane, they don’t pepper him with nosy questions about his time in the woods. Instead, they understand him and relate to his need to return to nature. Their plain gear and straightforward conversation both surprise and impress Brian. By placing these characters in a positive light, Paulsen shows the value of simplicity, both with one’s belongings and with one’s relationships to others. Brian encounters with adults who share this worldview help him to embrace the values of simplicity as an essential part of his identity.

Finally, Paulsen highlights the theme of simplicity through the events of the novel. Although exciting, dramatic moments occur in the novel such as the storm and wildlife sightings, Paulsen often describes the simple routines of Brian’s days. He highlights the step-by-step processes Brian must complete for small tasks such as making dinner. For one meal, Brian must catch fish in his canoe, clean the fish, gather wood, start a fire, cook the fish, clean the pot, bury the leftovers, and gather more wood for the morning. Paulsen’s descriptions of such everyday processes are not flashy or emotional, but they demonstrate the everyday responsibilities that consume Brian’s time in the woods. Brian’s days are simple, yet they are simultaneously extraordinary. He sees breathtaking scenery, learns things about nature that no science book records, and gains insight about himself. Through Brian’s experiences, Paulsen shows the beauty to be found in a simple life.