Mountains and Desire

Discover the profound exploration of climbing and mountaineering in 'Mountains and Desire', a thought-provoking read published in 2021. This trade paperback delves into the journey of climbing against the backdrop of its rich history and contemporary relevance. With 120 pages of insightful narrative, author Margret Grebowicz reflects on the significance of climbing as a metaphor for personal and collective aspirations. The book investigates pivotal themes such as the environmental impact of Everest's degradation and the cultural conversations surrounding iconic climbing landmarks like Australia's Uluru. As commercial mountaineering gains traction, and social media showcases the exhilarating feats of climbers, this publication addresses the complexities involved in this revered sport. Grebowicz navigates through the intricate relationship between mountaineering, motivation, and the embodiment of #goals. Whether you are an avid climber, a passionate mountaineering enthusiast, or simply intrigued by the pursuit of adventure, 'Mountains and Desire' articulates the intertwined nature of human ambition and desire amidst a landscape fraught with history, ethics, and personal growth. This essential read not only engages with the exhilarating spirit of adventure but also challenges readers to consider the deeper implications of their passion for climbing in today's world.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781912248933
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2021
Publisher: RANDOM HOUSE US
Pages: 120


Description:
On the 100th anniversary of the first attempt to climb Mt Everest, Margret Grebowicz shows how and why climbing and mountaineering are still important today.

In 1923, a reporter asked George Mallory why he wanted to summit Mount Everest. "Because it's there".

Today the question "why do this?" is included in nearly every mountaineering story or interview. Meanwhile, interest in climbing is steadily on the rise, from commercial mountaineering and climbing walls in university gyms and corporate workplaces to the flood of spectacular climbing imagery in advertising, cinema, and social media. Climbing has become the theater for imagining limits-of the human body and of the planet- and the nature of desire, motivation, and #goals.

Covering the degradation of Everest, the banning of climbing on Australia's Uluru, UNESCO's decision to name alpinism an Intangible Cultural Heritage, the sudden death of Ueli Steck, and the commercial and critical success of Free Solo, Mountains and Desire chases after what remains of this pursuit - marred by its colonial history, coopted by nationalistic chauvinism, ableism, and the capitalist compulsion to unlimited growth - for both climbers and their fans.