To the Ends of the Earth

Gordon Wiltsie has written and illustrated (with photographs) a beautiful 224-page hardcover book, published by W.W. Norton, entitled To the Ends of the Earth. Adventures of an Expedition Photographer. Wiltsie is considered one of the world’s preeminent “expedition photographers.” We are treated to his talents in every conceivable way – both artistic with his photography, and literary with the prose that accompanies the images.

I am in awe of the Preface, where the reader is introduced to the motivations and heart of Gordon Wiltsie. He shares credit with many who have contributed to his success, while laying claim to his expertise and the important ways that his activities and photographs are viewed by others. Throughout the book, he successfully points out that adventure entails risk, but that for him and others, the rewards are worth the potential catastrophes.

The photographs tell stories, so they are not always poster images suitable for wall hanging. Rather, they support the stories and guide us through the tales of adventure. I am in favor of this method, because rather than being enticed to quickly flip through the book in search of monumental portraiture, I was able to readily move back and forth from words to photos, to understand how the threads were been woven into tales. I took my time reading the book, because I found myself drawn into each story.

If you appreciate the wilderness and wish to inspire yourself to become more adventurous, or just to understand the motivations and trials of those who have already committed themselves to expeditions into the wild, this is a book that you should read. Gordon Wiltsie has created a wonderful book, and I highly recommend it.

Tags: To the Ends of the Earth, Gordon Wiltsie, medical, physician, health, wilderness medicine, outdoor medicine, healthline

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