Hatchet Q&A
- 1
Why is the novel called "Hatchet"?
Brian's mother gifts him a hatchet so that he can make use of it when he visits his father in the Canadian oil fields. Brian doesn't truly like the gift but he takes it as he wishes to spare his mother's feelings who seems particularly fragile. The Hatchet then becomes Brian's only actual tool of survival, not only does it allow him to chop wood but it is essential to his discovery of fire. The significance of the Hatchet is apparent, however, Brian's reliance on the tool is greatly demonstrated when he loses the Hatchet in his attempt to break into the plane. Brian realizes that his survival wouldn't have been possible without the hatchet and that it forms an essential part of his identity in the wild.
- 2
What important lessons does Brian learn about nature over the course of his time in the forest?
Brian realizes that there are certain important rules in nature that all its creatures follow, the first and most crucial is that food is everything. He learns that all things in nature are constantly concerned about sustenance just as he is. The other most important rule that he learns about is that the work for finding food and protecting it never stops. Brian learns that he needs to do things right, and not take shortcuts. He cannot be lazy and must constantly prepare for gathering and protecting his food.
- 3
Why does finding the rifle make Brian feel so uncomfortable?
Brian understands that the lethal rifle makes his survival in the woods almost easy. It allows him to defend himself, and source food easily. This ease of living in Nature makes Brian uncomfortable since he has spent such a long time and energy learning about the ways of nature. This closeness to nature makes him feel uncomfortable a thing so outside of it.