Hatchet By Gary Paulsen Character Analysis

Surviving in the wild all alone can be difficult, especially unprepared. In the novel, Hatchet, by Gary Paulsen. Brian Robeson must work to survive in the wild with limited materials. Through the book Brian learns to use positive thinking and patience in order to survive. Through his experience, Brian develops a positive attitude that allows him to meet the challenges placed upon him in the wild. For example, although he has just crashed in a small commuter plane he recognizes that he is at the very least, alive.“I’m alive, he thought. I’m alive. It could have been different. There could have been death. I could have been done” (Paulsen 33). Brian keeps a practical state of mind in order to keep his hope alive. He does not know much about his situation but by acknowledging that he is alive he is able to look at his time in the wild in a more optimistic way. …show more content…
He tries to catch fish to eat so that he can get some protein in his body, for example, “He had worked on the fish spear until it had become more than just a tool. He’d spent hours and hours on it” (Paulsen 106). Brian keeps working hard and takes his time to get what he needs in order to survive. Brian learns to persevere and becomes persistent towards getting his food. By staying persistent and patient Brian finally catches his fish. In addition, Brian keeps working on his fish spear for a long time without giving up, “He held the fish against the sky until it stopped wiggling, held it and looked to the sky and felt his throat tighten, swell, and fill with pride at what he had done” (Paulsen 119). This quote explains how Brian’s endurance and tenacity has paid off, leaving him with a fish to eat. Although it took a lot of time and hard work Brian can be proud of what he has accomplished. Patience teaches Brian that all good things come to those who wait and work