Part 4, Chapter 23 Summary and Analysis

Attention to detail is one aspect of Krakauer's writing that stands out in this section. Just as a good journalist would, he reports the date, day of the week, time, location and even the weather conditions in a way that flows evenly with his story. These details help set the tone for the account that will follow. This is the sentencing hearing for Ron Lafferty. During the hearing, Ron is verbally abusive to the presiding judge. Ron indicates he plans to seek any appeals that might be available to him. It has been seventeen years since Ron was sentenced to die for the murders of Brenda and Erica Lafferty. Brenda's family has been tormented because the trial has been drawn out for so long. Reading Brenda's journals detailing her struggles during her life with Allen, was the hardest emotional...