How did the author describe Franz's view on forming close personal relationships after meeting McCandless?

How did the author describe Franz's view on forming close personal relationships after meeting McCandless?

• A. He was relieved to have avoided intimate connections
• B. He did not want to form close ties and sought new relationships
• C. He eagerly pursued deep relationships
• D. He immediately adopted McCandless's lifestyle

Answer: (A)

Understanding how a character views forming close relationships hinges on noticing their boundaries and comfort with vulnerability. Franz is shown as someone who keeps people at a distance and values his independence. After meeting McCandless, he reflects that keeping emotional distance suits him, and he feels relief that he hasn’t become involved in intimate connections. This explains why this option fits best: it captures his preference for avoiding deep bonds rather than seeking them out or adopting McCandless’s lifestyle. The other possibilities don’t align with his stance, which centers on guarding closeness rather than pursuing it or changing his way of living.

Understanding how a character views forming close relationships hinges on noticing their boundaries and comfort with vulnerability. Franz is shown as someone who keeps people at a distance and values his independence. After meeting McCandless, he reflects that keeping emotional distance suits him, and he feels relief that he hasn’t become involved in intimate connections. This explains why this option fits best: it captures his preference for avoiding deep bonds rather than seeking them out or adopting McCandless’s lifestyle. The other possibilities don’t align with his stance, which centers on guarding closeness rather than pursuing it or changing his way of living.