it does refer to Bryson's novice status as a hiker and outdoorsman. By downplaying the monumental task of hiking the Appalachian Trail as a mere "walk in the woods," Bryson pokes gentle fun at his own inexperience in the wilderness. However, in doing so he also suggests that one doesn't need to be an elite athlete to enjoy the great outdoors; rather, one merely needs to value the beauty of the natural world. This idea is central to Bryson's conservationist message, as he ultimately wants the average citizen to be aware of America's immense natural beauty and the challenges conservationists face. 

In this humorous and informative narrative, Bill Bryson recounts his adventures with his friend, Stephen Katz, as they attempt to backpack the formidable Appalachian Trail.  They have a hard time of it, and eventually give up, but along the way have a lot of funny and painful adventures, and gain an appreciation for nature.

There are several possible themes for this book.  Although Bryson spends a lot of time humorously recounting their adventures, he gets serious when he talks about nature, its beauty, and mankind's negative impact on the world around him.  He discusses how people are overrunning nature, and how they are changing the face of some of the world's most ancient forests as a result of it. So, there is a strong environmentalist theme to the book, one of respecting nature, being kind to the environment, and how mankind can often be disrpectful and harmful when it comes to the earth.  Another theme is that of friendship; Katz and Bryson forge an unusual bond during their adventures, and make it through some trying times together.  They often push each other onward and help each other out.  So that is another possible theme of the book.  He also forms temporary friendships with people on the trail, and comments on how walking the trail tends to bind people together and helps them to open up and be more kind and giving.  So, nature's impact on mankind--making them more appreciate, humble, and friendly, is another possible theme to the book.

If you haven't read the book already, I recommend it; it's an interesting and entertaining look at the adventures of a couple pretty funny guys. I hope that these thoughts helped--good luck!

Bill Bryson and his friend Stephen Katz attempted to hike the Appalachian Trail in 1996. Although they did not finish the entire 2,190-mile trail, they walked 870 miles. During the journey, Bryson documented both his surroundings and his feelings.

In the early stages of the trip, he describes his sense of serenity and tranquility in nature. At other times, he endures maddening boredom. Throughout his trip, he has different reactions to similar situations. For example, he feels bored by nature and the tediousness of hiking when he initially experienced a feeling of calm in the same circumstances.

Early in the trip, Bryson finds tranquility in the simplicity of life on the trail. He explains,

you exist in a tranquil tedium beyond the reach of exasperation.

He finds escape from everyday life stressors in nature:

You have no engagements, commitments, obligations or duties; no special ambitions.

During this part of his trip, Bryson feels serene and engaged with the natural environment.

Bryson’s emotions change during other experiences on the trip. At times, the simple life on the trail is aggravating. The lack of variety and distraction bores him. Bryson becomes especially bored when he and his friend are stranded during a blizzard. They stay at a campground for several days, and he grows more frustrated every day. He describes himself as

on vacation from purpose and exertion.

Later in the trip, he stops enjoying the tranquility of the trail and finds it tedious and boring. These feelings lead to his decision to cut the trip short.